Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Karoto was actually sitting in a doctor's office right now.

In a dentist office.

Due to the fact that Nabiu figured out he had two teeth that had grown out while the other two hadn't been removed, they might need to properly clean up the teeth.

They were. Not okay. Like not at all.

Wizzro had luckily given him insurance and all, bringing Nabiu along just to not suddenly not go on his appointment out of pure neglect for his own health.

So here he was, laying in a chair while the doctors got some weird Medicine.

They called it Anesthesia, which way made to make him pass out silently while they worked on his teeth. Which sounded like torture, BECAUSE THEY FORCED HIM TO SLEEP BASICALLY.

Karoto…quietly whined, but slowly felt a hand wrap around his gloves on carefully, looking to the side to silently see the sympathetic blueberry beside hum on a chair.

“It'll be okay! I'll be here when you sleep and when you wake up!”

…..he held tighter as the doctors came close.

They had a needle- luckily, needles weren't used at all, but he knew other stuff. It'll be okay. Nabiu’s here. They're nice.

He's safe. He's okay.

His arm was silently poked into, slowly letting the liquid come in as he felt the effects come in, expecting pain and torture and- and….

Woah, he felt dizzy.

Karoto felt his vision swim slowly, breathing quietly as his limbs went more limb.

The only thing that didn't change the entire time was the small grip on his arm, keeping the warmth comfortingly close to his hand.

….It's okay.

Even if he was passing out, someone would be there to protect him.

Perhaps he smiled just a bit as he passed out. 

A peaceful smile.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The glint of a shining light on metal (what metal idfk) was the only thing that was needed to send the Barded carrot into a frenzy.

A simple stumble back from his lanky blackened legs was all Nabiu needed to notice to realize that he was on the verge of some kind of attack.

Panic.

“Woah- Karoto?” The blueberry questioned, moving her posture to face him completely, a worried frown creasing her normally kind features.

With a quick grip of his scarf and beginning quickened breathing, she took no hesitation in using her rod, trying to give him the comfort of no sudden hand-contact, and guide him to a more secluded area between two shops, currently closed. 

“Karo?” She spoke softly, trying to get at least a gaze towards her. She knew he couldn’t hear her right now.

Being a quick thinker, and still keeping the idea in mind of not overwhelming him further with contact, she used her rod as a sort of beacon of light to focus on and propped it against the right-hand shop. 

“Okay… if you can hear me, focus on the light.”

He proceeded to look up.

NOT THAT LIGHT-

Grabbing the rod again, she tapped it ever so slightly against the side of his jacket, trying to get his attention once more.

A quick FWIP of his head gave her all she needed to know. He’s listening, good!

“Okay.” She placed the rod on the wall again and directed him with her voice.

“Keep looking at the rod, can you tell me what you notice?” She pushed lightly.

“U- uhm..” He struggled, but sounded out what he could. “T-the- the color.”

“Great! Anything else?”

He moved his eyes towards the golden make-up of the rod. “The, uh… rod.” 

A small chuckle, “That’s the rod, alright.” 

Seeing he was more in focus, she approached him whilst grabbing the aforementioned Rod of Wizzro.

“You’re doing great, maybe walking through the plaza will help you calm down more!” She tried with a soft enthusiasm. 

“Uh… yeah.” He smiled very subtly. “Maybe we can try that.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

You know, People often said that kids were really kind when they were taught well.

Nabiu had great parents! They were the sweetest blueberries that you could ever see, teaching her all the things she needed to know to behave and be kind!

But that didn't stop other kids from being badly taught and…ending up hurting others.

Which brought her to this wet river that she had been pushed in, wetting all her clothes and stuff that she had been holding in the bag…including her Monster book.

It could be fixed with magic but…she was a child.

And children's first instinct was to cry when something broke, which meant that Nabiu started to gently sob beside the river while curling up.

She let the tears roll down her face and she shakely pulled out her purple crystal ball to call up Wizzro for hIm to pick her up.

He was like a secondary father figure to her afterall. 

“Ah, Nabiu- Oh. Are…you Alright?”

You couldn't really hide from the crystal displaying your face, she was crying infront her Mentor in all its glory…but she wasn't judged.

“Where are you?”

Wizzro had noted she didn't want to speak and Nabiu replied by moving the direction of the ball to the river…it was quite the known spot for the two for collecting mushrooms.

“Ah. I'm coming. Stay there.”

Luckily there are people who care.

Isn't that good?

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Horrific was an understatement.

And he talked so nonchalantly too.

And how long did he say he’s been going through this for??

Nabiu was horrified at the prospect that from starting from AGE FIVE he was treated like the world’s most horrendous serial killer to ever live.

He was trying to survive. 

No WONDER he was so skinny for his age, so… touch-aversed and starved. 

That reaction he had whilst he was sick and seeming like a seven year-old? 

Oh for the Gods above she would make sure that he was going to know that he is LOVED. 

The tears that Nabiu shed is proof of that. 

It’s a damn promise.

————————-

As a head M.A.G.E and looking after young folks to turn Interns at his facility, it’s always been the number one rule to keep one’s health in shape, both mentally and physically. 

Needless to say Wizzro was petrified as he stood stalk still despite having gone to do some busywork whilst listening, it’s just how he did things.

But under this happenstance, and a look from the outside may seem like he’s just being absent-minded while the young Barded (previous) thief spoke, that was far from it.

Imagining such a young individual in that predicament for about eighteen years is just…

He couldn’t think of enough words that his dictionary could provide, even under description of the most wretched monster that was categoried and studied, of how terrible it was with how he was treated his whole life.

Literally. 

With the extra room that Wizzro had given him, courtesy of Nabiu convincing him with Community Service that Karoto would provide, the old wizard had a thought.

A permanent one.

That room would forever be his starting this point on.

————————

Having learned of the issues that had arisen in Karoto’s childhood, behind bars, on the streets, in front of the public when being openly apprehended and shamed. AS A FIVE YEAR OLD. 

Broccoli Knight’s blood was far past boiling, and he’s pretty sure the other three occupants in the room could simply feel it.

His rage was unbridled. 

Hearing about the fact that Karoto had almost got blinded because of a horrible throw that one of his guard coworkers threw and laughed about as a joke afterwards kept his eyes moist and his heart pumping.

Getting some snippets, and having heard the story that, in his opinion, was told much too easily and smoothly, of having straight panic attacks and learned Claustrophobia made him physically sick. 

He…

He couldn’t fucking believe he was so ignorant due to wanting to appease the masses as a closed in society within a rotting kingdom. 

Well.

It won’t be for long that they’ll keep idle conversation on giving a kid trauma. 

Karma is what you make, after all. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Wizzro hummed as he held the cauldron in his arms, walking up steadily to the top of thr volcano that was currently letting itself broil in peace.

Why is he going up a volcano, you ask?

Well, a customer really wanted to see of there could be a fire type potion that could also help with healing…it was for their rock friend who ripped open often.

And Wizzro wanted to provide.

He slowly got up to the top, kneeling down as he took out an average sized spoon with special magic….and dipped it in.

It was literally like pulling hot cheese out of pot while it's getting dunked with bread, but he knew better than to stuff this into his mouth like a gourmet meal.

He very carefully poured it into the cauldron, grabbing some more liquids and herbs that he had in the bag he brought with him, slowly pulling out everything and mixing it into a. Fine beverage.

The colours were really pretty, mixing in with green, Purple, a firey red and a cheesy yellow that had burned together quite nicely.

He would say it smelled like burned fire wood.

A bottle was slowly taken, one rather big as they had hoped to give a good amount of money if they could get a bigger portion of said potion.

So it was filled to the brim, closed shut and more.

Now to the even more fun part.

He got out a small box, pressing a red button that had been placed ontop of it-

Just for it to form into a nice little bowl for him to slide down a mountain, carefully sitting down it.

Is he insane? Probably.

Is he too old to care? 

EXTREMELY.

So his way back consisted of him bumping into rocks and having the time of his life with the potion he needed.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Hearing that there was a Karaoke bar within a local village nearby the Time Clock Woods got Karoto’s heart POUNDING.

And Nabiu seemed to have gotten rubbed off on the energy, as she was buzzing around him and stimming her arms away like the excited child that a twelve-year old should be.

It’s like they were on the same wave length, exclaiming in unison; “LET’S GO NOW!!”

Yes, there was a mission. He… wasn’t sure if he’d call it important, as the idea of using that magical chair of teleportation to any destination you thought of?

Who would want to miss that opportunity?

But who would also want to miss the opportunity to literally sing your heart out and have the harmony of people’s awe’s in the background to match the pulsing music?!

With that invigorated energy, Karoto and Nabiu pushed their way forwards into the nearing village with a time to be had.

A potential for peace. Even for a moment. 

————————-

It was… quite the typical bar if he was being honest.

Not that it wasn’t inviting! The low-toned colors of the lights of a glowing orange and yellow rather complimented the carrot’s color scheme. 

Along with his energy. 

And although Nabiu didn’t have the same “color tone”, her energy was level with Karoto’s.

Should he grab a drink first??? What about Nabiu- 

She had already found her way to the machine, not even thinking about the prospect of food and drinks from being too excited.

He… honestly couldn’t blame her.

And an old feeling came back that he thought he wouldn’t feel again.

The tingling sensation of excitement, butterflies in his stomach like he was performing on stage in front of a big audience.

…Okay, technically he was but- YOU KNOW WHAT IT DOESN’T MATTER- 

With an almost subtle skip in his step, he made his way over to Nabiu and the little set-up that was the Karaoke machine. 

“You wanna go first?” Despite his thrumming energy, he didn’t want to push the kid away for his own amusement and wanted to sing, but somehow, as always, she surprised him.

“Me?? I can’t sing!” She said with an honest but almost guilty grin.

“I may be good with numbers and magic, but my capabilities for reaching high notes is awful.” She replied with an almost dramatic lilt to her voice, but not without amusement. 

He couldn’t help but wonder how it sounded either way.

But before pondering further, the BU-BUMP of his heart and the quicken drumming of his fingers against his sides was a quick reminder that he really, REALLY wanted to go first.

He hadn’t done this in YEARS. Let alone in front of an audience.

There’s already a risk in simply being out in the open, whether it be a forest, plaza, a cave… there’s gonna be something that indicates he was there.

And with Nabiu… Some of those feelings have changed with being nervous that he’ll be known. Maybe not all hope is lost just yet. 

With his thoughts being a stream of self-consciousness and worry, he let the want of music and the strumming of his strings take it away for a little bit.

And up to the machine he went to pick a song.

And a song he found. Several of them, in fact.

Sure they hit close to home but- 

Shaking his head, he selected his few. 

And off he went.

—————————

The first three were a warm-up. He wanted something that’d really let his singing shine. 

And what better one would that be than a good old rock-based cover of one particular song that hits just a bit too close to his core.

Aishite Aishite Aishite - Rock Arrangement.

The beginning strumming of the guitar was what let him know it was beginning. 

And he began to play along like a full-fledged concert, guitar in hand following along with the notes in a harmony that he’s played many times before.

And it never got old, even with the pain that came with it. 

Then the lyrics started and so did his vocal cords. 

Switching between soft and hard on the notes to create a balance of emotions that only so many can capture.

Comes with the experience of hardships, unfortunately. 

“Far away far away distant and out of shape there was a neck-lace shaped~

I just want a home I just want a home 

It cried through the night feeling sad and alone.”

And thinking more on this when the song reached the 40 second mark, his mind went tight [the memories of rock-solid walls with only the old mattress far withered like his soul to comfort him.]

“Please don’t get angry 

    Don’t leave and abandon me

      Crumbling cry to be free-ee…” 

[The shouts of pleading and tears running down his already tired face rolled down as the guards ignored his cries, leaving only the echoes to greet his desperate words.]

The strings cease temporarily as the lyrics soak in through the bar, many eyes on him and his playing, but not the former looking back.

“So come tie it tight, ‘till the bile inside you overflows warding the ones you call close.”

Eyes closed and letting his emotions take over, the instruments picking up again. 

“Isn’t this so much more fun? 

      So kind a lie 

I’m your only one.”

[The guards’ masks with a deep hole where eyes that hold emotions should have been, keeping track of seemingly only him.]

“Charming and bursting with love…”

[A fake smile he’s learned to use as a mask and envelope others in a false sense of kindness as he stole.]

“I’m kind and meek why can’t you see it’s hurting me MY SWEET-“

[A bloodied spear lies a few feet away as he almost loses sight of those he’ll fear, even without the colors.]

And as the guitar strings pick up in a velocity that begins to groan with a wiry sound [like he did when he cried in front of them so many times] the flood gates broke as did the songs calming melody to one of raw thoughts and feelings.

“OOHHH GIVE ME YOUR LOVE GIVE ME YOUR LOVE GIVE ME YOUR LOVE OH MORE, OH-“

Only the sounds of his heartbreaking playing, haunting melodic tune with a voice raw with pain as he reaches a peak within the first chorus, unshed tears and a grimace that was masked by the low lighting in the place. 

“GIVE ME YOUR LOVE GIVE ME YOUR LOVE GOING INSANE BY LOVE SO MUU-UUCHH-“

A deep breath and he’s back down with the soft tune again.

And it continues, those feelings never leaving until the final note.

“—-and people call these happy days…”

…

It was quite for a few seconds before-

[The sounds of clanking armor and a door slamming-]

Applause. 

His eyes shot open and revealed almost shining tears and people

Smiling.

And looking right at him joining in on the applause was Nabiu, who had tears in her eyes as well but with a shining smile.

And he couldn’t help but smile back as well despite the lingering torment of memories and haunting tunes that seem to mirror them. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Arti bit into the flesh of a Tomato once.

It sounds so dumb coming from just hearing that. Perhaps a bit descriptive on the bite. A bit weird to call it flesh.

But in their universe, this was Murder at first sight from an animal that should have stayed in the wild with its parents.

It silenced the scream almost immediately as they were in the forest, attracting others would be a fatal flaw….it's Food, it's theirs.

Their food. Their meal. Their delicious warm fruity meat rolling down their stomach.

Arti bit into the stomach, pulling out the stomach and it's pipes. Or. Whatever. Food. And slowly picking it, getting any kind of blood off it, tasting it as if it was a delicious sauce.

It rolled down the chin and it was warm. The more it ran down, the more it's heartbeat raised, the more it's veins were pumping and the Pupils getting bugger and bigger OH GOD-

IT WAS PERFECT.

The Flesh slid down it's throat almost to easily, the huge amount of meat just slowly closing up the inside of its neck and keeping their breath still…before slowly ending up in Arti’s stomach.

It was warm.

It was rolling around and making it's belly bigger. It was making its arms and legs weaker, but who cared.

….it felt crying.

This was a simple being, they didn't deserve this..

The tears rolled down the Artichoke's face.

…but the smile grew with sick silent giggles as the tears only rolled over the body as he kept eating, the need for food bigger than the want for mercy.

An animal is what Arti is.

…….

But hopefully. One day. They can dissolve the urge completely.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

A slithering hisssss was the only noise that had to be made for Arti to become on guard and nearly wrap Karoto in a protective hold with their arms, cloak practically masking his small frame.

And the confused sound that little Karoto made was all they needed to hear that they knew this kid had zero clue what they were about to face.

No worries, though. It wouldn’t last long.

“??? Arti?”

And the second the question left his mouth and resounding SCREEEE could be heard and immediately caused the carrot to flinch beneath the safety of their cloak.

A reassuring squeeze of Arti’s hands on his shoulders told him things are going to be fine (despite not knowing what the HELL that was) and just simply backed up further into the shield of their cloak.

Before grazing teeth could cause any amount of bloodshed, a fastening FWSHHH clocked it to the side and a spray of crimson blood gushed out of the thing’s neck, painting the ground with an unceremonious pattern of the beast thrashing on the floor. Bark-like scales practically looked like it was shedding off because of the wound. 

A Root Eater. 

It didn’t take long for it to cease, the jugular vein having been severed that not even the most profound surgeon could fix. 

“…You’re safe now.” They released their gentle hands from his shoulders and Karoto unveiled himself.

Trying to take a glance at it, he was stopped by Arti, simply nudging him along to keep whatever innocence left the kid had. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Okay, this won't take long.”

Karoto was actually ready to cry again.

Doctors were never the kindest when he saw them work, quite literally feeling lime he was dissolving into acid when he saw the Instruments they used.

Today was simply supposed to be a check for his reflexes and health.

“Let me see your tongue?”

….he very quietly stuck his tongue out, letting it be inspected by the doctor with a stick while he slowly propped up another tool for the heart.

It was weird to see someone else hear his heartbeat, but whatever.

“Alright….”

They brought him over to a stand to check his height, noticing he was rather small and weirdly shaped for a carrot his age. They would usually be longer.

Hm.

“Now, to the reflex test.”

Karoto quietly sat down, thinking thus would perhaps be a normal test without any kind of interruptions. Perhaps a noise? He didn't know what kind of noise it would be-

Bump.

…..His leg shot up immediately and he may have kicked the man in his sweet spots while flinching heavily,. 

“....OH GODIMSOSORRY-”

Yeah.

Nabiu had to hold her mouth not to laugh when he came back.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Pissed off was the lightest term one could use for Broccoli Knight’s feelings. 

The more he remembered the stories that his… eugh crew told him, the more and more he was about to become the kingdom’s next serial murderer. 

And you know what? He didn’t feel any shame, either.

For as long as he’s been a part of the kingdom’s royal guard, he’s always held his tongue and went along with the other knights’ ideas and “morals”. 

He’s been holding himself back for far too long.

The others were able to say and do whatever they wanted with a slap on the wrist.

It didn’t matter to him if what he got was execution after this.

A fucking CHILD.

From the years of five to twenty-three years old. 

Hell, even a day of what those vile vermin did to Karoto was more than enough.

EIGHTEEN YEARS.

They’re about to feel those eighteen years of morbid entertainment get right back at them.

——————

“Aaahhhh, well look who it is! Just in time for the outing, actually.” One of them, quite the stout looking broccoli, jested.

He continued to walk up without a word.

“Well, since everyone’s here now-“ 

KRRSHHH

The knight’s helmet practically almost flew off his head as the dent pushed into the guard’s face. 

Unfortunately it didn’t take his head off.

Maybe this tIME-

It took a solid ten punches to his fucking face for two other guards in the room to get him off and apprehend him.

Oh, he wasn't done.

Aggressively throwing his shoulders to the right, he kicked the left-side guard to the side and proceeded to punch the other, his rage none the wiser as half of the others in the room faltered back while the others took a defensive position. 

They looked at him like he was insane. Quite the ironic mirror. 

“What- WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!” 

Simply answering that would probably make him go insane from a fuel-raged laughter at how backwards the question was. He should have asked. NOT THEM.

Stalking towards them, not even bothering with his spear, his hands bunched up into tightly-grasped fists.

He wouldn’t stop until every single one of them was down. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto coughed silently as he held Nabiu close in his arms, hearing silent crying as he couldn't help but try and shush her quietly.

“Hey- It's…I-its okay, were alive.” 

It sounded almost like a self-comfort attempt.

He doesn't know whicher species decided to nestle a nest of almost 20 different stupid species he didn't care to remember direct in that area, but he wanted to end them.

….They were both heavily injured.

There was a boss queen as well, this had been literal hell. 

“....Its. its okay. Alright? Were safe.”

Nabiu was shaking. Her wand had almost been lost, but he had caught it, slowly giving it to her as she clung to it and his scarf.

It was wet with tears.

….he didn't know why he wasn't crying.

His body sure was shaking slot, but perhaps it was just an instinct to protect others.

To be the big hero Nabiu needed.

“....I'll keep you safe. Okay?”

…..Nabiu took a moment to respond.

“....promise?”

A bit of silence.

“....Sure. Promise.”

Promise. Because he wasn't gonna let a kid die.

It'll be okay.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The thing looked like it was going to blow.

No.

Scratch that.

IT IS-

Without a second thought Brocco grabbed hold of that ever precious velvet-red scarf and pulled him away from the crackling glass that was going to be glistening little splinters in seconds. 

———————-

Time felt like it was going slow and that Karoto was choking.

THEY’RE PUSHING HIM THEY’RE GONNA TAKE HIM-

DONTDOTHISTOME-

He grabbed hold of his scarf, and unintentionally his neck as his breathing began to splinter like the little specks of stars on the floor.

S-stars??

IS HE FUCKING DYING?!

He can’t even feel his heart rate WAS IT EVEN THERE?! 

HE JUST WANTS HIS SCARF BACK DONT TAKE IT FROM ME ITS THE ONLY THING I FUCKING HAVE-

“-oto!!” 

He gripped his scarf ever tighter and just began bawling, his breathing not being helped with his sobs, barely taking a breath.

“-ey heyheyhey-“ It sounded rushed and guilty. 

He pushed up against whatever he could as he balled up his scarf, in which he finally took back! and huddled up against himself in the tightest ball he could. 

“Don’t put me away pleasepleazepleasePLEASE-“ he ragged on.

—————-

And something clicked at that moment. 

He thought- 

Oh goodness…

Recalling what Karoto explained, and Nabiu’s telling of some incidents that were similar to this, this… was a PTSD trigger. 

Pulling. 

Looking over the shambled mess of a carrot, he did what he tried to remember in dealing with panic attacks.

“Karoto?” He tried, albeit with no response.

So… 

…

“You’re not going back there. You’re okay here.” He tried again.

Seeing his eyes attempt to find some semblance of Brocco, gave him some confidence in continuing his comforting words (if one could even call it that).

“We’re in one of Wizzro’s classroom sections, there are no cells nearby.”

Fearful eyes begin to go slack just a bit as his breathing begins to dissipate with focusing in on his words. 

“Th-the place… this place…” Karoto speaks out, “It… doesn’t. Have those. Colors.” It was choppy, but at least he’s able to be a bit coherent. 

“What colors?” Brocco egged on, attempting to get him to focus on the now.

“Dull. Dark. It’s… bright. In here. …Nabiu too.”

He chuckled at that, “Heh… she really is.” 

“We… I-I… we’re not-“

“We’re not going there. You’re not in trouble. You’re safe. You’re okay.”

Being in a more banana’d position, although tears still in his eyes, he breathed a bit more. 

An old guard into a friend. Helping this time.

The irony. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Our dear found family found themselves in a rather nice situation today!

Yes, Surprising, I KNOW.

They were playing a game Boules and for those who don't know what that is, you try and throw the ball the farthest with each having one ball at hand.

Karoto was…average. Not too far, but had learned enough to land near a small Bush that was about 4 Feet away.

Nabiu had been practicing throwing things with her rod, so she actually overthrew Karoto! Just….not by many meters. But that didn't matter, It was the fun that was the prime goal!

Wizzro was Just a bit less close from Karoto but it was fine, he would simply throw it with more force next time or chest with a rod.

…..Leave him alone, HE STILL HAS CHARM.

Now it was Brocco's turn!

There were soft cheering behind him as he started to throw the ball and-

FHWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM-

CRACK.

….He hit a tree.

And actually MADE IT BEND OVER WHILE THE METAL BALL WAS STILL STUCK THERE.

There was a heavy shocked silence.

It was broken by a giggle.

Before the other three where dull blown giggling and wheezing at what they had just witnessed, while Broccoli Knight restrained himself to not join in at the situation.

“JESUS- HSHSHAHA HOW DIDTHATEVENHAPPEN-” Karoto could barely form words as tears rolled down his face from laughing, while Nabiu was trying to completely fall on thr ground.

…Broccoli couldn't help but slowly laugh too.

This was ridiculous.

Perfect.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

SSHHHRRRRIIIPPP-

It was a deafening sound, and one he really. REALLY never wanted to hear again. 

It… almost took him a full minute to register what had happened, and even with Nabiu by his side trying to coax his attention, he couldn’t look.

He couldn’t look away.

It was akin to seeing his own blood from that spear again.

But a part of his fucking soul. 

He fell to his knees.

“K-Karoto-“ Nabiu attempted to wave her hand in front of his eyes before going to put her whole body in front of him, trying to catch his attention before another breakdown.

That was already too late to ask for as his body shook with a recognizable fear and distraught she’s been learning to realize it was from straight pain.

And not the physical kind. 

She didn’t even think he knew he was crying either, his eyes barely visible as they became pinpricks.

She lightly grabbed his hand, trying to get anything to register. 

Nothing. Just an increase in a near-convulsion and the all-too familiar shell-shocked tears that flowed down his face in a patterned waterfall of orange. 

She took the chance to reach down into her cloak and pulled out her purple orb, making for the contact of Wizzro.

“Nabiu?” He immediately responded, concern lacing his voice. She almost never calls when he’s within a walking distance.

“Is everything alright?”

“Uh- kind of? Can you come over to the dormitory, please?” She made a quick haste in her voice, but tried to keep it as low as possible to not startle Karoto in his trance. 

Without another question, a quick “I’ll be right there, my girl.” And ended the call.

Nabiu sat down in front of Karoto, using her hat to block the sight of his beloved scarf. Almost as an act of mercy like a parent seeing the corpse of their murdered child.

It… disturbed Nabiu a bit, not hearing a single sound coming from Karoto.

He was clearly breathing and (barely) blinking but it’s obvious he wasn’t… really here. 

And it stayed like this for about five minutes until the little blueberry heard the familiar confident steps of Wizzro, making a gentle entrance.

“Nabiu? What…”

Seeing the all-too familiar gorgeous scarf that’s adorned Karoto the first day the head M.A.G.E saw him on the floor in two almost perfect pieces was all the wizard needed to put the pieces together.

“I see…”

He looked over to Karoto, where Nabiu was gently holding his hand whilst the carrot cried silent tears and being almost as still as a statue.

Lucky enough he knew the basics of sewing, and made to pick up the scarf.

Wizzro can’t lie to say he wasn’t a bit nervous to pick it up.

He honestly thought he’d be attacked at that moment with how protective the guy was over his adornment.

However, with Nabiu’s help in, half-successfully, keeping his attention with her soft voice and words, he was able to take it off the floor and to the back wall where a long table was.

Manifesting his sewing tools, he went to work, making sure that it would be as perfect as possible to help Karoto get back to his usual state. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

…

She was…

Not in a great state.

The lemon bat’s mind went back and forth on the matter, knowing that it… 

“Honestly I think that those who take their lives are selfish.”

Hearing that made Lemlo want to cry.

Is that what she thought if she were to?

Her ears flick down ever so slightly with the too-familiar feeling of wetness coating her eyes. 

Quite pitiful, wasn’t she?

“Talk to someone, it’ll help!” Is what she heard a lot.

That’ll just burden people though. More worried than a person should be since they’ve already got their own issues! 

…

She started feeling sick, and the sudden movement of the bat standing up caught both Karoto’s and Nabiu’s attention.

“Oh! You going somewhere?” 

Lemlo looked them over for a second, thinking much more than she should.

Should I tell them? GOD no they’ll think you’re crazy for wanting to do anything to yourself! Pitiful. They wouldn’t see the marks on your wings, not like they noticed before. 

Why would they care just because you let them have shelter in your home? You really are hopeless, Little Lem.

Stop it stop it sTOP IT STOP IT YOU’RE WRONG-

“Lemlo?” It was Nabiu’s voice who called out with an ever present worry that she’s seen but has ignored since it was a mask. 

They never cared. 

“I-…”

She felt like throwing up, passing out, and screaming all at once. 

“Give me a moment, please. I’ll be right with you…”

Without another moment she turned around and walked to her little cove and just…

Stood there. 

Like she’s always done with reprimands.

Take it and they’ll leave. They won’t question a thing. 

She lifted her head up and swallowed down any cry she could make and act like she wasn’t crying.

She hated showing emotion. She’s sure others hate it when she did too.

Make it easy and pretend. That makes things easier. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto had tiny jobs before all this community work and found family crap.

There was the constant job of getting food, thieving around now being considered a means of survival and a job since he could get good money by stealing stuff for others.

It was for the small meals and snacks he cna afford with it, but that didn't matter.

There were the jobs that he had while being in teams too.

The Job was very different depending on the team he planned to betray.

There were times he was the one disassembling important traps, making sure no trip wire, no bug rock falling down or any weight traps were activated.

So many team members got hurt due to arrow traps, which was simply stupid because they weren't that hard to identify.

Sometimes, he was the supply man. Karoto held onto food with the endless bag while snatching a lot of it. It was one of the rare opportunities of getting his belly filled.

There were even times his Bard skills came absolutely on hand Yemen he destroyed each monsters with the sounds of his guitar distracted them or even made them dance.

…Perhaps the main job though was passing dumb.

Playing dumb enough for others to not realise his intentions.

To realize his true way of thinking.

…..

He wished Arti didn't see all those old plans. All those old mechanics of betrayal. Didn't hear those whispers of lies.

Both made mistakes that night and both owned up to them by now and working trough it.

A job truly.

But one that is for once truly worth it.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Nabiu stretches upwards as she and Karoto walk away from a perilous fight with a mutated Fatigued Fungi.

Poor thing got infected and looked like something from The Last of Us.

And of course, the duo were called to action, ready to take this thing head-on!

What they weren’t prepared for, however, was the spores. 

Things would’ve spread already if it were dangerous. Based on her calculations, it only got a couple meters from it, and what did get in contact with those said spores, it was knocked out cold (poor Flutterpup).

At least for the smaller creatures. Things that took more effort however…

Karoto sure got the brunt of it, as the poor guy was staggering so much, barely even keeping his eyes open properly.

“…Karoto?” She called lightly, knowing he’d pass out right then and there. 

Cover would be nice if they’re gonna to take a stop and rest. Wizzro’s school was much too far for a walk like the two would normally take. 

So, taking a look at the closest shade she could find (a nice, average tree with no dangers for once), she grabbed hold of Karoto’s sleeve and got his half-awake attention.

“How about we stop here?” Nabiu gestures to the nearby tree. “We’ve been on the go for a while.” 

That seemed to get him out of his daze for a second.

“W-what?? We’re barely… half way through.. the day.” He slurred out.

Knowing that he’ll probably be stubborn about it, she decided that the next best solution is to just.

Do it.

So Nabiu grabbed the hem of his sleeve and pulled him over to the shady tree. (Slim shady)

It was.. disconcerting with how easy it was to drag over a 5’4 carrot, who’s a foot taller than her, to a patch of grass.

Either her training has been going excellently or Karoto was still struggling with malnutrition.

Either way, she plopped down, still holding his sleeve, and brought him down as well.

He was clearly still fighting sleeping despite the spores.

“Karoto…” 

“Mmergghhfgtggug”

Trying her best to conceal a laugh, she reassured him. “Let yourself rest a little bit, heck, sleep it off, even.” She nudged him on that word.

“It’s okay to breathe every once in a while.”

It took a couple of minutes after that, but she noticed a rhythmic breathing coming from the guy, and knew that she did well this time. 

“Stop pressuring yourself so much. You’re allowed to rest..” she mumbled as Nabiu, too, dozed off. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo couldn't help but sigh silently as she laid down on the slowly cold grass, staring up at the clear skies of stars that we're presented to her.

It was weird to see this sight. She hadn't been out of her cave for….longer times than healthy.

It was only meant to be after all, she knew she was annoying and a pest, they would leave her eventually so it was nice staying in-

Footsteps approached that made her flinch ever so slightly.

The Bat slowly folded her wings in, aware that they often show so much more emotion than needed. More emotion than they could handle to hate.

“...Can I Lay here too?”

Karoto. The snarky Bard who would like to play a Symphony of despair for you.

“....Course! Why not, hehe…”

The awkward chuckle made her want to cringle inertly, gulping down any kind of tears that wanted to roll down from pure embarrassment.

….The grass crunched beneath the Carrot as he laid down.

“Nabiu’s setting up the beds.”

“Ah.”

….The silence was not helping her thoughts.

They only felt louder now.

Perhaps you should leave. They'll attack you anytime soon. They'll hurt you like everyone else. Go back to that cave. It'll be okay. I'll safe you. You'll be never good enough, but-

“She looks up to you, you know.”

“H-Huh-?”

“She often talks about how cool your Bat powers are. How you can fly and carry her. It's….Quite sweet to see.”

Lemlo blinked.

“Oh…”

Karoto sighed.

“I see you as…okay. Your okay for me as off currently.”

Okay.

That…..was weirdly nice to hear.

Could be a lie.

“....I appreciate your help here. Maybe stay just a bit more so Nabiu won't cry so much?”

The chuckle was soft for once, but only for a moment.

She considered.

Looked up.

….

And mustered up a smile.

“Perhaps. I'll see.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Having been called to help for an invasion was not on her agenda for what was to happen within the week. Not that she really had much planned but- 

It… was quite surprising to say the least, she hasn’t shown much physical capabilities and she isn’t even sure that many knew of her plant abilities either. 

It scared her a bit.

Freak.

Shaking her head a bit somberly, she looked at the door with apprehension.

…There’s a time and a place for everyone, though. Maybe that’s something to count? 

Having Nabiu around with her companion, Karoto, seeing how… chipper she was in the face of what she’s described before-hand, how she managed to be so damn brave.

It inspired her some.

Maybe there wouldn’t be any danger to feeling some of that.

Even if it was sparse.

Deep breath in.

Out.

In.

Out…

Okay.. 

The place where a claw should have been pressed against the door and pushed it open, peeking in.

And within the seconds eyes snapped towards her that previous feeling was GONE.

Especially the one without eyes. 

Immediately something sank into her stomach and told her to be fucking cautious. 

No denizen is that large without…

Their billowing cloak that rested amongst their seemingly heavy body, odd vines that seemed to almost grow out of them of a jeweling turquoise green with that would take one off guard predator markings? and most striking of all:

The vines across where a face would be. 

That was what made some of the alarm bells go off in her head despite knowing zilch on them. 

Don't be rude, Lemlo! She reprimanded herself and instead tried to wave to them with a more… less wavering smile. 

Shaking head once more (although almost shrunk with the eyes still on her were they still on her??), she made her way to a seat unoccupied next to the aforementioned M.A.G.E and gave a very meek “Uh… hello.” To the rest of the cast, an awkward smile, and flitted her eyes downwards as she waited for the conference to begin. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Nabiu coughed silently as she laid in her bed.

The blanket that was tightly wrapped around her Helped a bit at least, her body trying to warm up the mere child that fell into a flu by working in the snow.

Always wear warm clothes, NOT ONLY YOUR WORK CLOAK.

“Hey, it'll be alright. Wizzro is preparing soup for you downstairs.”

Karoto was there, for once just in casual clothes like a Lose shirt and some pajama pants just so Nabiu would be more obliged to wear them too.

A little workaholic sometimes.

She….felt a bit bad. They surely had to put away Some Important work for her and Wizzro had an important class today, she just knew it-

A soft whined escaped the Blueberry as she shivered.

“Hey, hey. No standing up. You're good.”

Big brother energy over here.

Karoto made the soft Effort to comfort her by slowly going through her small bit of hair, brushing the soft strands and making sure none of it was too sweaty or dirty.

“..s'ry.” 

“Your fine. It's only fair that I take care of you after everything.”

“W E.”

The Carrot chuckled at the exclamation from downstairs.

“Yeah. We. So you just rest and i'll wake you up when the foods ready. Kay?”

Nabiu sighed softly, but relaxed backwards into the cushion, feeling a small plush being put under the blanket that she quickly pulled close.

Her brain turned off after awhile to go into a sweet dreamless sleep.

But it wasn't that bad.

The warmth nearby made up for it.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

ASL was a language that, although may seem easy, can be tedious with some of its rules to sentences and communication.

Arti couldn’t be mad, it’s not often that those of their species, let alone other people in other kingdoms, would know something that’s akin to deaf folks. Typically.

That’s currently where the standstill is between the large artichoke and the small carrot, with a dumbfounded look on his face. 

Communication was going horrendously. 

Simply trying to ask What’s your name? was hard in and of itself when the kid had zero knowledge on what the hand signals even were!

“Uuhhhhhh…” the small orange (pup)KID tried, unsure of how to advance this… conversation.

And it was like Arti’s prayer had been silently answered, for a familiar red tomato made her way over towards them in a rushed manner.

“Goodness, there you are!” 

Arti could almost sense his tenseness. Afraid maybe?

But of Tomaria of all people?

Glancing over at Karoto, she made a quick smile and a greeting.

“Heya! Name’s Tomaria! Yours?”

He… looked like he was about to cry.

What the hell did that kingdom do?!

Seeing his hesitancy, the tomato bomber took charge and decided to lighten up the conversation for him.

“Hm- Oh! You probably can’t understand them, huh?” She gave him a light, understanding smile.

“No worries! I can translate.”

Arti proceeded to repeat their question, starting with the shaking of their hands with the palms upwards, changing it to putting their top two fingers on top of their other fingers put together and tapped them together, and then used their pointer finger to point at Karoto.

The kid tilted their head again and looked towards Tomaria for confirmation. 

“‘What’s your name?’ Is what they’re asking.” 

Something seemed to click, and that frown turned into a slight smile.

“Oohh…” With the risk of giving his name crossed his mind, he decided to shorten it a smidge.

“…The name’s Karo.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The rain came down from above as the yellow flashes everywhere, lighting up a field that should have been long forgotten, now blistering in the wind of chaos.

A Lycan had gotten into a storm cloud, cracking the whole field with it and destroying nearby mountain Structures as if it were nothing.

The only good thing?

The whole group of chaotic goods were there.

“Everyone, go against each others backs.” Brocco said loudly, slowly feeling the weight of the others against his back as the screams and screeches of the beast echoed everywhere.

“Quite the fasty one! I haven't seen such a large Lycan In a while!” Wizzro simple exclaimed as he used his own Rode to pick up a stone and use It as a shield.. for a second.

Before it exploded.

“....My Guitar Is over there-” 

Karoto coughed as he gripped onto his stomach, pointing far away to a wet little brown thing up ahead.

A guitar, semi broken. He wanted to actually cry.

“I can't reach it!” Nabiu flinched as another spark came, clinging onto the Carrot’s jacker with a slight whimper.

 It was truly a beast In the storm.

“...You Make a run for it. We'll back you up. Alright?” 

The others shoot a glance But sloely.. got a expression of slight thought. A nod was exchanged as Karoto quietly gulped.

He nodded too.

…..1.

2.

…..

3!!!!

With A burst of determination, Karoto shot forward by rolling down the hill, barely avoiding a shot of Thunder from the pissed off lycan.

Another photo came, quickly reflected by the guard with his too big sword, shooting it back to the sky where it belonged and leaving another screech to be heard.

Stones were shot against different looking yellow orbs, trying to reach Karoto but failing miserably as he not only parkoured, but got protected by everyone who could.

A jump up was also necessary because the dang thing shot underneath him for a split second.

It made eye contact.

It had one pupil glaring up.

He felt like throwing up.

Or eating dirt, which happened by smacking into the wet grass before him…JUST BEFORE HIS GUITAR-

Karoto grabbed it at light speed.

It was…slightly broken, and the flashes of light showed cracks in the fine wood ir was crafted in.

But he wasn't dying today.

No.

Yells of fear escaped the others as thr thing seemingly AVOIDED their defenses, shooting for Karoto-

….

…..

But it was reflected.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Being gifted by the old M.A.G.E. himself was like a blessing in a weird way.

He… Brocco was not used to getting gifts, let alone one on one.

“I have noticed you’ve always seemed a bit stiff in that armor of yours.” Wizzro began, and Brocco couldn’t help but to cringe internally at that.

That wasn’t the only uncomfortable thing.

The knight wasn’t feeling like being miserable with old thoughts today, though. 

So, focusing once more, Wizzro rattled on.

“—so I thought you may like these. I wasn’t sure which color you’d prefer, but I hope it fits right.”

From first glance, it already looked crafted with care and love, not a stitch out of place and like it was made in a factory.

Proceeding to take it out of Wizzro’s hands, he took a quick walk towards an unoccupied side room of the old M.A.G.E’s office and proceeded to change into the new clothes.

…

How the hell did that guy know his size???

Because they fit like a freaking glove.

It was of a stylish, yet simple coat with three buttons layering the top half of it, the main color being of a reddish hue that almost made it look like a deep-cut ruby. The buttons and collar accompanying the smaller details were a heavy royal purple, with deep-red pants (that look more like jeans) truly complimenting him and making the broccoli stand out from his peers. 

And in a good way, too. 

…

It… it really was a nice gesture.

It felt weird just like the clothes. Too loose, it felt like but too new. 

It hasn’t been through much; it's like taking an innocence away.

But… he can’t take away the pride and happiness of one who likes to help.

Although uncomfortable, Brocco walks back out and is immediately met with a happy smile that Wizzro’s heavy beard could not bury.

“It looks fantastic! How does it feel, nothing tight at all?”

He wanted to be as polite as he could, so he responded with a half truth.

“Its great. It truly is. The colors are great, too!” His voice lilted, truly happy with the outcome on the color scheme. 

It’ll probably be some time to get used to the feeling of being open and unburdened with a new set of clothes. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo sighed softly as she sat in the fresh patch of flowers, always leaving a single bit of grass open to sit on so no flowers needed to be stepped on.

She could always fly to that one spot to be in pure solitude.

a Soft spell was brought over the flowers so vines would come closer perhaps being there to just be taken care off or-

“Huh. What a-”

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-”

…

She might have smacked the Carrot for a moment before grabbing him so he wluldnt smack into the flowers.

“Ohgodimsosorryididnrseeyouaaaaaaa-’

Karoto only chuckled in response as he lifted himself back up, rubbing the place where he was hit and easily sitting down.

Didn't even look hurt.

“Your fine…..so, your a gardener?”

Probably is lying to you. How could you hit him.

The Bat shivered but shook her head, slowly sitting down and nodding just a but in response, her ears perking up.

“....Kinda. I can….grow them to be taller. Their different than the usual.”

“....Ah.”

Karoto was silent For a moment.

“Pretty.”

….

A compliment.

It felt nice.

She watched the plants with him, perhaps growing them just a bit to bring some impressive magic.

….

She couldn't help but smile again like last time.

“Yeah. They are.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Trudging his way over to the M.A.G.E.’s home wasn’t even on his mind and yet the world continued to buzz.

The crunching of the dirt under his armor-plated feet, hell, the feel of the armor itself felt like it was too hot, like, blazingly so. 

The noises didn’t help when they felt AMPLIFIED. 

The birds cawing above, the idle chatter of the kingdom that, even though was going away the further he walked into the calm atmosphere of the forest, felt like it was only getting WORSE-

Brocco barely felt the wooden structure of the door as he pushed his way in through the main lobby, the place showing to be quiet with its soft glow of the lowering sun, casting an illuminating glow of golden orange in its wake through the window. (Where a certain chair should be). 

The soft feeling of footsteps seemed much too loud, and Brocco couldn’t help but put his spear aside and clasp his hands against his head, goD WHY CAN'T THE UNIVERSE JUST SHUT UP-

“Brocco, Sir?!” Wizzro exclaimed, his usual calm demeanor replaced with concern that he's done with Nabiu, and occasionally Karoto, before. 

He did not want to talk right now he felt like he was going to explode and NOBODY LIKES IT WHEN THAT HAPPENS.

He began walking away from the wizard, practically pushing his hands into his skull to just- GRAHHHH 

“Brocco.” Wizzro stepped in front of his path, holding his hands up in a placating manner, having seen the almost peeved off expression on the broccoli’s face. 

“Let’s have you sit down for a moment, seems like you could use it.”

——————————

With a bouncing leg, Brocco managed to calm down some, keeping his attention to at least that and the least bright thing he can focus on, which was the brown wooden floors that laden the place. 

It was like the man was reading his mind; “Long day?”

Brocco gripped his hands into almost a fist.

He wouldn’t understand a DAMN thing. 

He's lucky he got to BE here. To be able to be surrounded by folks, even if they were mostly children, to be able to teach and actually have FUN without feeling like you’re leSS THAN THEM-

“I get it. I truly do.”

His leg stopped bouncing, the screeching of the metal ever apparent since it ceased to listen to Wizzro’s words. 

“It’s… hard. At least it can be without proper breaks.” 

Wizzro dragged a chair to sit near him, almost within arms reach. 

“Feeling like you’re responsible for everything. That being a part of a system will eventually make you a cog that will stop working if you don’t keep going.”

He closed his eyes and breathed for a moment and looked over to Brocco with a tired understanding. “You can’t keep being a part of that system if you don’t get a chance to rest. To prevent getting rusty.”

Tears pricked at his eyes, feeling like he was saying that just to keep him uplifted for the king’s sake. 

And it’s like that dissolved the second two other arms wrapped around his shoulders.

“You don’t have to keep breaking yourself down to uplift a system. To appease others.” 

“You’re a person too, Brocco.”

The hug tightened and Brocco couldn’t help but just…

Sob. Falling into the embrace. 

Just this once.

(It will certainly be more than once). 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Brocco gasped as he Shot up from whatever dream he had.

It wasn't a good one.

Our Dear knight was suffering from...Night terrors. Quite a bad one in fact, but that's just a part of being a guard over everything. Trauma that stacks above the sky for people who sometimes don't appreciate you.

His clumsy hands gripped onto the soft wool, massaging it beneath his hands, reminding him that he wasn't in armor. Or bathed in blood. Or holding a dead person in his arms.

….Urgh.

He needs water.

The sweat was silently wiped from his face, reminding him that he for once wasn't wearing a mask….not like it looked like he had a face. 

Perhaps being in the dark really didn't help the fact that his face was always a little bit more unseeable than others.

Steadily yet tiredly, he walked to the kitchen, hoping to get a nice cup of water and-

…sniff. Sniff.

 …Karoto?

There was someone else in the kitchen and it was the carrot that had always been a bit of a troublemaker. But nowadays it was much more of a coping mechanism he build upon.

“...Karoto.” 

He almost accidently hit his head against the cabinet as he looked over to the tired guard, wearing pajamas and holding a mug of hot chocolate in his hands.

“.....Hi?”

“Hey.”

The staring was a bit awkward.

Brocco proceeded onwards to the cabinet, taking out a small wooden cup and filling it with water from the tap.

“Not the comfort drink type?”

“I don't need one.”

“Liar.”

…The banter was almost comforting as they stood beside each other, slowly engulfing them in silence again as he brushed through his puffy hair.

“Bad dream?’

“....Yeah.”

“.....Me too. Guess we both have horrible sleep schedules.”

The broccoli looked over. The Carrot had puffy eyes and some faint tear tracks on their cheeks.

“I'm sorry…if I hurt you before-”

“Oh, PLEASE, you're fine. That wasn't your fault.”

“.....It feels like it.”

“Perhaps you're stupid then.”

….The cacao started to taste bittersweet.

The tension was weird. But they both know that it was only natural after all this.

“....Do you like me in any way?”

“Don't know. You don't hurt Nabiu, so your fine.”

“.....Alright.”

Perhaps it wasn't the best night.

But it didn't need to be.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Getting an invite through their gifted orb from Wizzro for basically quality time was probably the best news they’ve gotten all week.

Not that anything had happened! It… just got a bit boring sometimes. 

It… came from past habits of being on the move consistently. 

From…

The flashing images of torn intestines, broken ribs and femurs protecting the best bits of meat, the tenderness, the crimson red of a living creature that was full of life that got consumed- 

That beast.

It was still THERE.

And although this thought process wracked their brain, their feet still trudged forward on that familiar path surrounded by emerald green flecks of grass, a stand-out building of both a school, job-place, and home.

A home that allowed a monster.

Their large form stopped in front of the door, almost towering over the wooden frame as an oddly soft knock knock knock resounded from their claw against wood.

And within a few seconds a kind face with gentle features that not even his beard or large hat could mask greeted the artichoke’s face. 

Papa… They almost wanted to sign but kept it under wraps as the mass greeted the old Wizard, bowing their head in a greeting.

“Glad to see that you have arrived, Arti!” 

Their heart couldn’t help but soften at that kindness. Forgetting their grief for just a moment. 

“Come in come in! I’ll get our tea set up.” He left the door and went into a little kitchen area as Arti ducked their head some and went into the old familiar home.

They felt like a ghost being in it.

They were taken in as an… actual person. Despite the fact that they have KILLED PRACTICALLY IN FRONT OF HIM. 

They remember all too well, coat still stained with dried blood of a desperate little prey that cried while eaten alive.

It makes their heart skip a beat, and Arti isn’t sure if that’s from excitement or guilt. 

They wanted to perish from the thought.

It’s been twenty years since then. Why…

“My dear, sit down.” It was a simple quest. It felt heavy. Like a sentencing or cast of judgment when they go to sit in the chair.

This is Wizzro though, he wouldn’t….

Right? 

They mean… just like them, it’s easy to hide. 

They…

“Feelings are hard to deal with when they're presented with things that create reminders.”

Wizzro’s cryptic message caught them off guard enough to look at them, a quick double palm facing upwards and a shake of both near their chest in a questioning manner What?

He chuckled lightly, addressing them.

“Are you alright?” 

Arti couldn’t help but look away, the claws inside of their cloak gripping both pant legs as the feelings they were trying hard as hell to keep down came bubbling up quick.

Just like their need for FEASTING-

Although they kept their vines on, the movement of both of their arms in an almost T-pose position, but their forearms up and their claws bent to to represent, well- claws got Wizzro to understand immediately.

“Monster?” He seemed to parrot, and Arti nodded their head vehemently, “Oh, Arti…” He got up from his chair and crouched in front of them, and although Arti was sitting, they still toward the wizard.

But what he saw was a person with a lot of guilt and confusion. Not a creature. Even with what he was told via sign, the way that Arti reacted in how they explained their experiences made all the difference. 

“Your experiences and ideals aren’t reflective of who you are.” He emphasized, and they couldn’t help but silently scoff. 

“I understand that it may not seem like it… but even as it is a habit, you needed to survive. Just like everyone else needs to. You’re not a monster for needing to live.” 

The wetness that pressed against their vines was nothing compared to the heavy feeling in their chest.

They shook their head No over and over. 

Not with what they have done.

A feel of two arms wrapping around their upper chest got them to cease for a moment before they simply leaned in, feeling tears attempting to roll down their face as Wizzro comforted them.

“You’re not a monster for what you are born from.” He reassured. “You’ve made changes to be different, and that’s much more than what most can say.” 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo felt beside herself today.

‘When did she not?’ is a good question.

She silently breathed in and out as she walked through the tight spaces of the public, feeling people bump against her due to them wanting to inconvenience everything.

The eyes kept watching every move she made, the taps she counted from 3 to 5, the shudders and download from one of those rare lemons that can be quite rare to see.

The coat hung there, hanging over a body that didn't feel like hers. That didn't belong to someone who didn't treat it well at all.

God, They all knew she was a fraught. They'll throw her in like a helpless fish in a birdcage, unable to escape in a prison that doesn't even fit her.

They'll claw her eyes out, rip her wings apart, make sure that whatever breath she takes wouldn't be even-

Lemlo was someone. She doesn't know if that someone should be cared about. She doesn't know if that someone was capable of a rest. 

You should have stayed in your cave. A silent voice whispered. They'll hurt you anyway. Another one mumbled.

Her feet started speeding up. She couldn't start flying here, she'll hurt someone and they would all scream and get mad-

Count the steps till your there. Just count.

1.2.3.1.2.3.123123123123123-

Free enough.

The wings of said Lemon unfolded, almost falling over from the numb feeling but somehow reaching the air in seconds anyway.

….it was colder up here.

If only Lemlo could feel it.

If only I were a person.

If only.

I f.

…..

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Do you know what that magic does to someone without proper handling?!” Wizzro’s voice cut through Karoto’s thoughts, guitar sitting still in his hands as he gripped the neck and the base with a grip all-too familiar.

Just… not the question. What did that mean?

“The… magic?” He questioned. He does know what magic is, right? He’s used this beauty for years. 

It’s like the word buzzed in his head. It’s something he’s heard a thousand times whilst traversing and hiding from the kingdom. So… why does it feel like it hurts? 

It’s like the simple word was enough to cut off communication with his neurons, synapses unable to collect a processing unit with each letter. 

“Yes, my boy… the magic. That guitar is incredibly powerful with that dice of yours, but have you learned to properly weld it?!”

Weld? He’s… holding it. What? 

His eyes blinked about a thousand times to create some sort of understanding, but that just hurt his eyes, and in turn, his brain more. 

He probably should have questioned how Wizzro knew how to “properly weld” his guitar. Did he have one before? Did he make it?

Is what he would ask if his brain didn’t feel like there was a tight bind around his head and like there were sounds that were zapping through his ears and into his skull. 

Why couldn’t he make heads or tails of a simple question?? The words are so simple and easy to understand, so why not put them together??? 

Wizzro’s questioning stopped as he looked at the carrot with an inquisitive look but one that was on the more softer side with laced concern as he waited for an answer. 

The quiet was very welcomed as he continued to attempt to ponder what the hell the question was.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Nabiu smirked as she hid behind a Bush, holding out her Monster drawing book to see a new species that really comes here….an ARTICHOKE!

Fun Fact she learned; A bunch of Artichoke’s is called Chokre!

More specifically, a normal one and one that seemed to have come out with some disabilities due to overbreeding…she hoped it was alright.

She carefully looked out of the Bush, seeing the giant creature In its natural beauty simply laying there and resting. It’s spiky hair laying on the ground beside it while also letting its giant tail rest on the grass.

It lazily locked onto the more deformed choke.

….One extra small limb was forming out of its legs, seeming to hurt to an extent due to its silent wincing when even trying to move it. The hair was also missing in some spots, giving it missing spaces of spikes.

The tail seemed to be in a lightning like state, the bones cracking up and down in a natural way….kinda like an pikachu but completely unnatural.

Nabiu couldn't help but sympathize with it as she wrote and sketched out some of the dysfunctions it had.

….The normal one silently scorched closer to the other Artichoke, gently licking the face as a sort of comfort to the one that seemed to be in pain.

It truly was an universal problem.

Nabiu made sure to not disturb nature, but that didn't mean she couldn't feel bad about it.

She innerly hoped it would stop one day.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

‘Your rather pretty.’

“Huh-?”

Lemlo stared wide-eyed at the Artichoke beside her.

Karoto had suggested that she and Arti should perhaps hang out more, especially because apparently they fit together due to them being…quiet people.

Couldn't even blame him for that statement.

They Were sitting together in the flower field, one which has grown quite nicely as the flowers looked like silk and any plant that touched them felt weirdly soft yet sturdy.

A garden of comfort one might say.

…..And yet, the weirdness didnt stop as Art signed that to them.

Pretty? ….Her?

She isn't pretty. She checked. The Bat was too stiff. To purple. Too imperfect. Every part had a stupid mistake in them. It couldn't be counted and she hated it.

….hm.

“What…part?”

She barely got the words out, but decided to ask anyway out of curiosity.

The Artichoke actually touched her- she almost flinched -....but gently touched the cloak ears, stroking them just a bit to show what they meant.

‘Everything. But…would say the cloak is the sweetest part. Really Soft. You're soft.’

….Lemlo felt warm for a moment due to the compliment.

….why did she want more-? Usually she wanted nothing more than the lies to stop, but-

Curiosity killed the bat afterall.

“...W-What…What else?”

Arti stared….and lightly poked the feet.

‘Your dusty marks are pretty.’

….Oh.

She was heavily confused yet also…felt happy? What is this- she felt like she was cringing at the idea of it being true-

It can't be true. Why would this random hero They barely know compliment them-?

“...Why do you- SAY that?”

Perhaps Lemlo said that a bit too nervously, but she needed too know.

….She could almost hear a chuckle, but her ears must have betrayed her.

‘Because you're so rare. I rarely see such a pretty Lemon.’

I.

They.

……thats. weird.

Lemo stayed silent for the rest of the visit.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The smell of half-priced paints and a clean room filled his nostrils as the carrot and blueberry walked in, a big smile plastered on her face while the other of confusion.

“Sooo… whatttt is all this?”

It was a rather simple area, pretty and clean (not for long) with a couple of canvases to the left-hand side of the room, with two easels set up in the upper-half middle of the room, small paint bottles lined up underneath in a rainbow.

“FINGERPAINTS!!” Nabiu exclaimed with much more energy than was anticipated.

He stared at her befuddled before she made her way over to the right easled canvas and immediately opened the dark blue bottle. 

“Finger… paints.” He… wasn’t sure what to make of this. He didn’t know how to do anything with the arts (minus his gorgeous singing and guitar playing [egotistical bi-]) and he… didn’t really know where to start, honestly.

“Yeup!” The blueberry child chirped, “Watcha standing there for? Come on!” She urged, and watched Karoto slowly make his way over.

Once in front of the easel, he looked over at Nabiu as she went back into her own little world and began painting. With her fingers.

Such an odd concept, he thinks.

With that thought in mind, begrudgingly, he took off his gloves and opened the first colored bottle he saw, that being yellow.

The Lycan would be cool to make…

And a couple of zig-zaggy stokes in and a part of the body was done. 

He was no professional but this was… actually kinda fun!

He looked over to show Nabiu his progress and was honestly impressed by what was on her canvas.

A cute little Fatigued Fungi under a shady tree with another nearby on its side. 

Huh… he should have expected that with how good her sketches were. 

WAIT HOW DID SHE MAKE THAT THAT FAST IT’S BEEN TEN MINUTES.

“That’s insane- you’re… really good at this.” 

“Aww thanks!” She looked over to his and simply smiled (partially under him trying and partially under him actually seemingly at ease for once). 

“Yours too! Betcha this is gonna look awesome! The… Lycan, yeah?”

Her smile didn’t shift, but her eyes subtly did, and Karoto shrunk down a very tiny bit, but breathed in and simply responded, “Yeah.” 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto flinched silently.

Ah shit.

You see, despite the very good decision the guitar is in, that didn't mean that karoto didn't have too repair a string or two and perhaps get it too a worker once or twice.

It is a very special Guitar afterall, it can't…really be replaced with any other instrument Weapon that you have ever seen before.

So the splinters it could make weren't that weird.

That didn't stop his thumb from hurting though.

Karoto cursed under his breath as he barely catched the guitar from falling, having let go after getting a VERY nasty splinter stuck in his Hand.

“Ouch- AH- S H I T-”

With As much gentleness as he could muster up at the moment, he put the guitar on the chair he currently stumbled out off, holding onto his poor hand.

The hand didn't deserve this.

It was pretty red, the splinter hanging there as if it was mocking his existence.

Urgh.

Looking back at the guitar though, it was…..alright. Must have been a small damage due to all the Lycan battles they have been through.

Just another damage needing to be fixed.

Both for him and the Guitar.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The two denizens of off-way lands thought as they walked, the clear skies not matching the two’s wavelengths under their pondering of the many things that could be thought of.

One of those thoughts was something specific for the yellow-winged creatures. 

Acknowledgement of someone who seems to notice you. 

Affection.

Something that can be shown in many ways.

Acts of love is what it’s called a lot. Gift-giving, quality time, acts of service… it all goes hand-in-hand to do one thing: Provide affection and appreciation. 

The bat wondered if she was exempt. She… honestly couldn’t really think of much in terms of any of the five within the “Acts of Love” that Lemlo’s received. 

And she’s pretty sure that the same idea goes for the large Artichoke standing beside her too. At least from what the lemon bat’s observed, anyways. 

After the whole debacle with the infestation of rogue Artichokes, she’s… begun to have her opinion change some. 

Just like their size, Arti seems to have quite the big heart attached to them. 

And the next few moments seemed to really put that side of Arti to show.

————————-

‘You.’ Arti simply pointed, as the lack of understanding via sign was prominent with the odd fruit.

Lemlo tilted her head some at the finger being pointed towards her, and responded with an inquisitive “Oh, uhm- yes?” 

A familiar door to Wizzro’s abode was right within reach as the two’s short travel was at its end. 

‘Thank you.’ 

The bat blinked and was confused as hell. 

“W-what… are, uhm, you thanking me for?” 

‘Coming along. Quiet, nice.’ They signed with several turns and switched positions of their fingers, trying to make the most simple signs possible. 

The bat had to take a moment to process the signals, specifically with the word “nice”. 

Isn’t it normal to do what others want without fuss? 

A light tap! on her shoulder blade had her jump the slightest as she looked up at the tall vegetable. 

‘You.’ They started again, and with a simple circled turns of one hand around the other twice, Lemlo couldn’t help but shrink in on herself with a slightly embarrassed look on her face, but nothing malicious at the word. 

‘Kind.’

As Arti walked through the old wizard’s door and a quick wave, the bat couldn’t help but the small feeling of her heart pounding a smidge with glee at the prospect of having another notice her for just a bit. To be around with having to worry. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Are you two ready?”

Wizzro didn't quite know what to say to this.

This all started from Karoto saying he had been so much through the land, he couldn't have even been affected by the food that he had put in his mouth!

Even the spiciest had been said to be no match to him!

Then Nabiu said that there was no way he could handle that much spice.

Then they argued.

And Now they were sitting here, multiple types of spicy food of any variety sitting in front of them, both having a mischievous smirk and a safety bundle of bread beside them.

Always eat bread when it's too hot. It's the best way.

Both gave an encouraging nod and Brocco already held the trumpet to announce when too start…there was even a crowd of interns there to cheer for them.

“Alright. 1….2…..GO!”

And it began.

Both began eating the spicy peppers and meals, pretty much already starting to sweat from the pure heat off the food and turning red like nothing else.

Their tongues were numbing slowly but that didn't stop their throat from making them cough from time to time, but no bread was tasted yet!

They Both broke off a part of the last Pepper, taking the smallest bite and-

And stopping for a moment as their eyes bursted open.

“Whaw- Whaw is-”

Mono perked up and chuckled, getting out a board with paper on it.

“Oh, that's a Carolina pepper! I thought it fit!”

 …..the amount of eyes that stared in absolute horror at him were probably not able to counted.

How did it end, you ask?

Karoto and Nabiu had tears in their eyes, silently giggling even if their stomachs and coitus were numb, staying on the couch too knock off the pain.

Th3y made a small fistpump.

Nobody won.

But that's okay.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

It started off with hand-holding.

It was… quite warm.

And not in the prospect of it being too hot.

Like… fuzzy.

It was rather nice to Brocco. And he had a feeling that Wizzro felt similar.

And the main reason why the broccoli thought this was because of the guy practically leaning INTO HIM WITHIN A FEW SECONDS.

Okay NOW it was starting to grow hot. 

But…

Brocco proceeded to wrap his left hand around Wizzro’s upper torso, practically cradling his side.

This… goodness he doesn’t remember the last time he’s had this… warmth. Genuinely. Like… an actual tender kindness.

Just about as he was about to lean in more-

“-and we could probably-“ 

Everything froze.

Everyone’s systems went into some sort of response. And the two faces showed it..

Karoto fucking appalled and Nabiu surprised. (Surprised Pikachu face). 

AND THEN BROCCO AND WIZZRO FU- 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto silently stared at the magic rod in his hands.

It was a sweet purple, mixing in at the fore with an orange that burned like a flame…or perhaps the lava that would be in a volcano, spewing at the seems.

“...So. This is what Nabiu uses?”

Wizzro nodded softly in response, simply guiding Karoto's hand to the next stump outside.

“It is. She wanted you to try it as well!’

….Fair.

Nabiu had always wanted him to share the passion she had for this kind of magic, throwing objects in the air as if they were nothing but pure air from them!

Perhaps…..He can do that too?

Karoto carefully pointed towards the stump, feeling the rumbles already Coming from the ground as speckles of dirt started flying out of thr ground.

The roots dislodged themselves one by one, poling out of the ground as the remaining live that they had left them, just being Another root in earth's system.

…The earth dislodged itself atlast, going up in the air and creating a small crater where the tree was left.

It was floating in the air now, a orange hue around it form the orb that brought it in the air.

“Wow….I can-”

Also, don't raise your arms while using a rod.

Because then the trees-

WHOOSH-

….

GET THROWN IN THE SKY.

“....oops.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Anyone within a five foot radius could feel the absolutely boiled blood of a past predator turned hero without even having to look at them. 

Arti wasn’t even sure if their blood was supposed to get that high, but they didn’t even care. 

As they cradled the young carrot closely to their chest, cloak obscuring them from a lone guard’s view (a bit more far than they should have gone), his stifled sobs and near panicked breathing both made Arti’s heart break and put together their resolve to rip the fucker if a guard in half. 

Before getting up to their full height to whoop the guy’s ass, they took a clear look at their pu-KID-TEAMMATE??

The poor thing was bruised. By either the guard or the many obstacles of walls and sharp turns he had to make, they had no clue. 

Was this not enough for them?!

Arti began to sign. 

‘Karoto.’ A sniffle as he listened. Two symbols that looked similarly to a rock-band symbol but faced down, with one of the hand symbols being lowered.

‘Stay.’ 

“W-WAIT!!” 

Hearing that shrill tone of straight fear got them to swiftly turn back around and attempt to get to their eye level, trying to at least be somewhat comforting. 

They unfurled their vines since the first time in a while.

“T-they’ll- they could take you away, too!!” 

Oh the mere IDEA of that stick figure of a guard grappling them to the ground with flimsy metal made them want to burst out laughing. 

Such an entertaining idea. 

They unfurled their vines since the first time in a while

Two 90 degree angled arms to the right of their body with their hands clenched into fists for a brief moment and pointed to themselves afterwards. 

‘I am strong.’ Index finger with their thumb adjacent and the other fingers down right against their maw, left fist to their side, and used the hand closest to their mouth to flatten it out and put it against said fist. 

‘Promise.’ An attempted soft gaze, their expression showing nothing but…

Care. 

Karoto couldn’t help but attempt to stifle a sob as they hugged them.

Arti returned it with such a familial-like feeling that Karoto almost wailed. 

They held them as long as he was comfortable, letting his tears soak into the fabric of their shirt. 

——————-

It was a bit of time later before Karoto’s sobs quieted down, Arti never having let go once, holding him as close as they could and to be a reminder that they’re there. 

Taking the time to bring him to their base (ft. Tomaria and Cameron) and helping patch up Karoto’s wounds, Arti announced that they’d be back by midnight. 

They were making sure that the guard paid :)

And paid they fucking were. 

The second that familiar guard (the guy was posted outside for sightings of this unfamiliar Artichoke that he saw Karoto run to), his fate was sealed.

He didn’t even see it coming.

The curvature of their outside arm-vine sneaked quietly behind his neck, their blood beginning to boil once more at remembering what they have done before and today, to their boy. 

And the quick GRIP of the guard’s neck barely made the guy make a sound as he was caught off guard, his struggling quickly ceasing as they squeezed. 

And then grabbed both of his arms as Arti proceeded to TTWWWSSTTT CRNCH on his left arm, not even a crack was heard as they made clean work of the guy. 

Their vines unfurled once more, but not for comfort.

Their eye glowed from within the depths of their hair, a sickening warning of yellow and a black, widened iris of straight unbridled, sadistic glee enveloped their eye and facial expression. 

A simple flick of their hand upright, palm facing downward underneath their chin, and a flick from underneath to the air to send them a message. 

And their claws SHRRIIPPED through their neck, taking their oxygen and soul. 

Maybe they’ll think twice next time. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo choked over her own breath.

She was gonna die, She was actually gonna doIMGONNADIE-

They had Been fighting something. Something big and yellow. Not her yellow, an acidic yellow that she felt like puking at everytime a single bit of lightning came across her skin.

The screeches sent chills trough her entire body, their rapid movement made them almost want to pass out, the useless of her own wretched wings made her fly back to dodge was…immeasurable.

At some point, Karoto had yelled for her to back away. At a moment, Nabiu whined for Lemlo to move back.

She did neither, getting thrown back near a sharp cave wall.

…..

There was something warm against her forehead.

….it smelled citrus sweet. Sour even. There was a hint of soft lavender Smell that had rolled down her forehead and down to her eye, forcing it to close.

It was sticky, noticed by the fact that it didn't leave when she wipped it. From her cloak, she could see it was a honey-ish yellow, sticky in texture and-

And.

Oh god, that's her blood.

The glow from before her came closer.

Two star like eyes stared down, beckoning her to look at them. Look at them too feel comfort, to feel her skin wanting to move like the mount of energy. To feel what it's like to protect the leyline.

….

“Lycans often control other creatures to take cover! There were often evidence off loss of control so that the lycan Wouldn't be attacked!”

….

Lemlo questioned if it was trying to take her body and rip it apart to be used as a meatsack.

….the claw came closer. She felt weirdly addicted too it as she felt something like core being attempted to be rewritten. Was she gonna be a Caretaker?

Was she gonna finally die? 

Perhaps-

S L I S H-

….The Lycan screeched as the sound of a guitar was made, the lycan getting more and more destructed into nothing before-

…..the leyline.

Was closed.

The lycan disappeared into nothing.

Lemlo looked up.

Orange and Blue, one crying. One staring in horror. The blueberry, hugged her tight while the carrot bandaged her forehead and asked questions.

….she cried alot as she just noticed.

People cared if she died, didn't they?

They yelled out pleas of Relief. Smiles of happiness at her skin not being torn. A snarky sarcastic remark on how she should stay near them next time or she'll become lemon juice.

….

Perhaps she smiled shakily.

Perhaps she giggled and laughed out of pure happiness.

Maybe.

Maybe she wanted to be alive that day.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The smell of burnt wood of several crushed down buildings was the first strike. 

There were.

So many people trapped it felt like it was going to be impossible to get out.

The kingdom’s one of many units coming out to help bring those that were caught in the fire to safety and help. 

It was currently Arti, Karoto (safety from the trees), Cameron, and Tomaria that have been tasked with helping, as their swift movements and calculations under pressure were quite rare to come by. 

And being certified of course.

Two of the three burnt-crisp buildings have been sought through and taken control of. 

It was the last one that needed saving.

“I’ll go on ahead and look to see if there’s anyone else!” Tomaria chirped, being quick on her feet and ZOOMED into where the front door was, nothing but a half-ashend entryway now. 

‘Cameron, stand-by!’ Arti fingerspelled the wolf’s name and announced the command, proceeding to look at Karoto’s form from afar and gave a thumbs-up in affirmation in things being under control so far. 

Well, despite the headache of the constant search and rescue operation going on, the stress of checking over them for basic acknowledgement if they were even still breathing!

That was.

Very quick to change.

“ARTI!!” Tomaria’s shrill voice called from the depths of the burning hotel and immediately leaped into action, preparing to go inside before she emerged with practically a half-black mass of what looked to be some sort of Orange denizen. 

Arti was not one to waste time and made haste to grab the evenly large Orange (always impressive when the Tomato Bomber can carry someone larger than her) and bring it over to a rushing until with a bed to transport already set up.

It wasn’t until the large Artichoke set the slightly bulged a Orange down on the bed from their shoulders that the smell hit them.

Smoldering iron.

Filling their lungs. 

Their heart beat faster than before, they swore it was already doing that WHEN THEY FIRST ARRIVED.

Their face and arms felt tingly.

No no no, that’s their vines, happens when you’re wearing clothing like them. And a mask.

Voices seem to mix in with their ringing as they continue to stare at the space in which the Orange occupied, their sight filling nothing up but jUST THAT COLOR. 

And the remiNDER.

The flashes of reminders of the blood dripping from their claws, pooling around their feet, the petrified expressions glued into their eyes and mouth, entrails and stomachs almost cut clean-out and consumed, acid-

ACID.

It tasted acidic in their mouth and it took them a moment to notice the color of their surroundings had changed, their cloak almost looked like it was raised in time with their pounding heartbeat and had an equivalent look to a feral cat. 

Did they run? 

Orange in front of them. 

They began to growl before the voice that accompanied them seemed to put them at ease from recognizing it. 

“Arti.”

With a blink of their working eye, things came swimming into view more properly.

And a half-scared, half-concerned Karoto was hunched in front of them, copying their position. 

…No. surely not. 

They looked them over quickly, before being stopped by Karoto.

“Woah- hey, I’m okay.” He smiled lightly, as if he wasn’t just almost seeing the face of something that was about to snap and kill. 

But he saw something else too, something he knew too well. 

Fear. 

They huffed, seemingly ignoring the situation. 

With their hand stretched out as an open palm, the keep their thumb straight towards themself and tap their chest a couple of times.

‘I’m fine.’ 

Karoto crosses his arms with a disbelieving look on his face, almost disgruntled. 

“Really?” He asked with a raised brow.

Arti copied them.

They chuckled a bit at the silly demeanor. 

They were ignoring the issue. And Karoto knew it. 

Arti slumped their shoulders at some of his acknowledgement and went to explain some.

They placed their left palm flat on a curled right fist and shook it up and down.

‘Stress.’

Karoto hummed in acknowledgement. He knew how that went…

“Arti!!” The little Tomato Bomber exclaimed, ash seeming to litter their hands whilst the familiar wolf came running up behind, a stoic expression all-encompassing. 

They became alarmed until Cameron put up placating hands to show there was no concern to be had as of right now. 

Things seemed to have been settled in with the buildings. 

With some panting in between breaths, Tomaria was quick to check up on their leader.

“You okay??? You…”

They did NOT need a reminder of what happened, so they simply put up their hand in a “STOP” motion and reiterated what they did with Karoto. 

Relaxed palm, thumb towards them, couple taps to the chest.

‘I’m fine.’

And they fully mean it now that they’ve assessed themselves (and their team of course) and without the feeling that they’re drowning in their own lungs and thoughts. 

Things’ll be alright. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Wizzro what sitting there, not minding the little Lemon in front of him at all.

Nabiu had introduced Lemlo in the normal fashion someone would introduce a rare kind of fruit.

“This is lemlo! She's really cool and she can fly, OH AND SHE CAN MAKE BIG PLANTS!”

That was about what she had said while the small bat had cowered behind her, looking like she was about to explode form embarrassment and nervousness.

Now, She was sitting there, drinking the Tea with relativ calmness and an appreciative smile.

It was peppermint tea, swirling in The cup with its green, white and red colours mixing together into a nice, watery base….with was too much sugar on the bottom.

No, literally. Lemlo poured five small packs of it in there before she thought it was the correct amount.

Wizzro wasn't gonna give a judging stare though. She was just having fun after all.

He was having some fruit tea with your average amount of sweet cream and a small bit of sugar. The Mentor was the fruity type afterall.

In more ways than one.

“Its good that I'm meeting you. Your quite the sweet girl!” Wizzro tried to sound encouraging yet quiet, not wanting to seem like he's treating her like sweet porcelain but also not wanting to be too tough on her.

It was a confusing combo.

“....Thank you. I…appreciate it too.”

Lemlo’s voice was careful and soft, sweet and kind.

Truly a small gift in the world of cruelty, even if it was crumpled up before.

She looked peaceful.

Good.

She deserves it.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

His too-good charming smile attracted practically anyone he came across.

It was quite useful too, nobody suspected a thing :)

Honestly, he was getting pretty used to the compliments, and they were quite nice! But nothing he really took too heavily on. 

Who would want a rogue?

He decided to take it solo for today, taking the chance to use the beautiful blue skies overlaying the top of the orange-crisp clock-wood trees truly could put one at ease.

Aside from the devious green bastards of a mammal that were the Gibbons that resided in the area (manhandling his precious scarf! They’re lucky he didn’t start beating them with his guitar-), the place was a beauty to behold.

And apparently kept his eyes closed to take in the tranquil air as he didn’t see someone coming through.

“Oof- augh, sor-“ It stopped dead in its tracks as Karoto readjusted his scarf and looked at whoever it was.

A h-

He- 

Hesitated some, a lot of the denizens knew him, and not in a good light despite some of his work as a Bard. A n d a t h i e f. 

He was… a bit worried that this carrot girl knew. 

She was of the lighter color variety, a yellow carrot, adorning a simple dress of a lime green that would match a spring day in May, that green being accompanied with hair that seemed to flow down halfway down her back. 

She didn’t look terrible.

He could admit. But not anyone he was interested in per say. 

“Oh my GOODNESS!! You’re that bard from the Broccoli Kingdom, right??” She questioned enthusiastically, no hint of an idea of what his double life was. 

The name left a sour taste in his mouth, but made that usual charming smile and he’s pretty sure he almost saw her faint. 

Slight fanning of her hand and she continued. “Gosh, you- you really know how to play well!” She gave a light smile.

“Heh, well yeah! Gotta keep the skills sharp if i wanna keep playing for them!” He eased his way through the conversation, this isn’t anything too unusual, he supposed.

“Your clothing match so well too! Really compliments your looks.” 

He wasn’t surprised by the compliment (still always nice to hear, of course).

“Well thanks!” He replied, internally cringing at how fucking basic this conversation was.

“Seriously, you’re really pretty.”

If that wasn’t the most blunt thing someone could say to try and flirt with them, I don’t think there was literally anything else.

He flipped his scarf coolly, unaware of the attempt at her compliments being done for something else. 

He was smart. Oh the carrot was smart.

But good lord he’s a ditz when it comes to seeing the lines between words. 

“Maybe I could hang out with you some?” She tried, hoping to be able to get closer with him. 

He shrugged her off with as much of a nicetie a conversation could go, “Ah, sorry.. I was about to head back to my place, actually-“ 

“Hm. I see…” she seemed to sigh, knowing that another attempt at basically asking him to go out with her wouldn’t really work. 

“Unfortunate, but you should really stick around the kingdom more, it’s nice to see you!” A last ditch effort.

Aaaannndddd one that was basically ignored as he waved off with that usual charming smile and made way for home base.

——————————

Retelling the incident to Nabiu as a sort of off-hand story made her realize that.

Well.

He was an idiot. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

She couldn't breathe.

Nabiu didn't think anything would have happened after all these Lycan fights. There wouldn't be any after effects, she's just a small kid with no understanding of anything after all! 

It shouldn't be so hard to breathe just because of the roaring thunder.

She shouldn't be hiding under a bed and shaking like a leaf just because the sky light up in unison with the blue ceiling cracking open.

It hurt to move.

There were loud roars of thunder. There were the clouds that kept flickering pretty Seizure inducing. It hurt too look at. There were steps approaching the bed. Her-

Wait. What was-

“Nabiu?”

A faint voice. It was barely hearable over the heavy amounts of ringing in her ears and the franting panting she was doing to just force herself too breathe.

A soft tap was made on her hand. She grasped for the thing that grabbed her like she would die if there was no touch.

….soft cooes came. Telling her softly that she was alright. There was another figure under the bed now, holding her frail body close. She clung to it.

….the whispers became clearer as a blanket was brought Over her, the thunder now quiet.

“....Your okay. I'm here.”

…..

Nabiu's breathing slowed down slowly as her back was evenly rubbed. 

She was…Alright.

There was no lycan.

No worries.

I am fine.

I'm safe.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The two were called by the king of the Broccoli Kingdom.

And they.

Were.

Ecstatic!!

Usually they were kept in a group with Arti (and Karoto, but he insists on staying undercover a lot. Must be wary) but this was an important spy mission. 

And in the king’s words, “You two are perfect for this task!” 

And so in front of the king they were, in the beautiful home of a castle, throne room laced in a rectifying orange glow by the outside light from the windows and the burning torches inside. 

“Who are we spying on exactly, my good king?” Cameron intercepted, making sure to get the details right.

Tomaria… was a bit impatient, bouncing one leg to the other to keep some form of energy in them without bounding off or creating an unintentional scene. 

He went for her hand and went from bouncing her leg to tapping his paw instead, and redirected his attention to the king. 

It’s like the king was pondering something before focusing on the conversation again. 

“There have been some… robberies happening as of recent, specifically from my treasury.”

“So I have heard, it’s rather unfortunate for your hard-working self.” He pitied, keeping on his good side.

“Per say, unfortunately. However, I have an idea. I was thinking on hosting a party of sorts here on the grounds, open to everyone in the kingdom! I’m hoping to get some sort of idea onto who this could be.”

“Smart idea, my good sire.”

“So we’ll be there to spy on everyone there! Got it!” Tomaria exclaimed, feeling excited at the prospect of both a party and being able to do something a bit more solo with less than three people on a team.

With her good pal, of course!

“And you two as a couple would make for a perfect cover-up!” 

Things froze like a record vinyl being paused. 

Huh?

“P-pardon?” Tomaria stuttered suddenly, not terrible uncharacteristic when caught off guard. 

“Oh my-“ he seemed to have notice his mistake based on their facial expressions. “Is that not the case?” 

“N-no!” “Not at all.” Tomaria and Cameron spoke in unison, one a blush of embarrassment and one of mild annoyance. 

“My sjncerest apologies, I thought that you two were… well, in any case, you two would still be perfect, as no one would really suspect a thing at a party of dozens!” 

The air was obviously awkward trying to move past it.

Both of them couldn’t wrap their head around the idea of it. 

They’ve been like this for years! And they honestly wouldn’t have it any different. Two peas in a pod, they work wonderfully together, Cameron’s smarts and Tomaria’s swift abilities with bombs and explosions, they fit like a puzzle! 

They really, really couldn’t see it as anything different. 

This mission was important, but perhaps a bit awkward at the revelation that this may be what others saw. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo sobbed softly as she curled up on the ground.

She hated public places, she hated heavy concerts and festivals with crowds where you could smell the fact that no one truly cared to clean themselves.

Where the smells, the toxins, the touched and the screams all molded together into a sweet soup of despair and stimulation that no one wanted.

That no one needed.

She was currently hiding in a wooden stall, sobbing to herself as the noise was only dimmed to A certain degree.some lights still came through the cracks.

Her wings felt like ripping. Her stomach felt like bursting. Everything was scratchy, she wanted to rip that coat off, RIP IT ALL-

Knock, knock.

“....Lemlo?”

….These two again.

Her brain begged her to leave them so many times. But they didn't leave her. They cared. She didn't want them too care. Their a burden.

“Can we come in?”

….Obeying was the one thing she was good for in the past.

The door slowly Got knocked three times fast, three times slow…three Times fast.

S.O.S.

….The Door slowly opened up.

The stall got a bit cradled, but they kept their distances.

…..slow taps to ask for touch.

She didn't like touch, but-

One ear lightly flicked.

Karoto got the note as one hand slowly stroked the ear, making sure it wasn't too soft or too hard.

Nabiu carefully rubbed a wing.

…..Lemlo cried.

But in a more happy way as the shadows they casted hid the shows lights that threathend to consume them.

….The shadows weren't That scary anymore.

The dark light that lit up Lemlo's world.

….

She smiled faintly.

She was happy, even if her brain hurt a bit.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Flowers were always so pretty, even when they began to wilt. 

Her’s sure were. 

The ones here had an… air about them. She didn’t know why, but as a magic user and experienced gardener/pollinator, she could just… tell. 

Some Daisies, some Roses, Daffodils, Indigos… 

They weren’t in a bunch or grew with others. They were… separate?

She nearly YELPED when a particular vine moved. 

“H-hello??” The lemon bat squeaked out, trying to stretch out her ears to find whatever that was that moved it.

No, it was someone that moved the vine.

Another… Chronokinetic. It wasn’t unheard of, but it’s rather uncommon. 

Catching another piece of movement from the front of a nearby little tree that was in pursuit of growing big, she noticed it.

Them, more specifically. 

Lemlo kinda froze in that second.

IM TRESPASSING- 

The figure didn’t move, but their eyes did and she’s pretty sure she would have sunk into the floor then with how much she seemed to hunch into herself. 

She noticed another part of the garden, she now realized, was actively moving.

TOWARDS HER.

Fearing the worst, and the best she knew her body knew how to do, she flinched, shoulders up, wings as a shield. 

And apparently a tap on her shoulder as one of the steps.

She cracked open one eye and thought she would have died right then and there despite the soft touch that gathered her attention. 

The figure stepped back and proceeded to take out their notebook, its casing in a rather simple but pretty lavender in leather. 

Lemlo couldn’t help but tilt her head in the curiosity that was beginning to take some place in her mind. 

Despite the small flinch that accompanied the bat when the individual showed her their notebook, she read what was presented.

‘Hello. I’m Grabley. What brings you here?’

Short and sweet. She could get behind that. 

“Uhm…” Breathe in, nothing to worry about. Just a simple conversation and you WERE NOT DOING ANYTHING WRONG. WAS SHE??

“I-I… I’m Lemlo. I, uh… I happened to see your flowers. I… really like them.” 

That seemed to lighten up the figure, Grabley, as they flipped to one page over, keeping their thumb on a specific part of the book.

‘Me as well! It’s a very pretty site and nice to grow.’

She could relate, there was… something soothing about breathing life into something that used to be barren. A splash of color in hell. 

Grabley went back to the previous page and pointed at a specific part of the introduction.

‘What brings you here?’

Lemlo couldn’t help but falter some. She didn’t really know either. 

“…Call it a change of scenery.” She responded simply. “Something else to… focus on for a little.” 

The Grape’s many eyes seemed to focus on her for a moment. 

They knew that look. 

Change of scenery was indeed needed. 

Grabley flipped to another page, this time grabbing the pencil from within the leather bound notebook and began to write.

Once they flipped it around for Lemlo to read, she couldn’t help but feel surprised at the offer. 

‘There is much more to see in this garden I’ve grown, lots of other flowers and types. Would you like to go and see?’

…For once, the idea of being able to see something other than reoccurring thoughts and flashbacks sounded wonderful. 

And Grabley seemed nice, too. 

There wouldn’t be much to fear here. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Nabiu hummed happily to herself as she walked around the filled house, all the interns wearing beautiful costumes handcrafted by themselves.

Today was after all….a Halloween party, and everyone was invited!

Heck, even Wizzro dressed for the location as a candle stand which was honestly rather beautiful with the magical flames that don't burn anything.

Pretty warm though, comforting to anyone who likes warmth but sad to the people who wanted to roast marshmallows.

Nabiu decided to dress as a Mushroom! She had her sweet hat now decorated with points and everything that a mushroom needed to be an awesome little Mushroom!

Oh, she almost forgot to go to Karoto!

He had decided to…stay on the couch mostly due to the tightness of the room, but was enjoying the juice he got from it all. He wore a M.A.G.E outfit just out of fun.

Said he wanted to look like a nerd to tease Nabiu, stood in the mirror for ten minutes saying stupid spells and giggling like a child.

“Ah, Nabiu! I'm sorry I couldn't join the big crowd cause- YOU KNOW-” He comically stuttered and coughed as he leaned into a soft pillow, smirking to himself.

“Ah, no worries! As long as you're enjoying yourself it's all alright.” She slowly seated down next to him, immediately grabbing the juice the carrot offered to her.

It all seemed….rather peaceful all things considered.

“Eh, Brococ didn't come…Probably got a bit lazy with Wizzro, hahahah- HAHHPLYSHITWHATTHEFUCK-”

Karoto screamed high-pitched and jumped backwards into Nabiu's lap, shivering heavily in comical fashion as he pointed at the thing he was scared off.

….You know. When you're a giant and a muscle guard, dressing as the GRIM REAPER is probably one of the most fun things you could do.

Brocco's quiet wheezing was barely heard as he turned away to not embarrass the thief, who was already sputtering and cursing out all flustered.

They were all happy.

And we're probably gonna collect loads of candy later.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The simple mention of the old, rusted cell bars from an off handed comment he probably shouldn’t have heard whilst Brocco was talking in another room to Wizzro put Karoto into a state of… numbness. 

He doesn’t want to remember, and neither did his body. 

Things felt like they were almost floating, like his body was a shell and his soul was just a few inches away. 

The reminder of that shade of an almost muddied, bloody brown began to become foggy in his mind as his brain began to block it.

It felt like there was a wall. 

Although his heartbeat quickened and his flight response was kicking in, he couldn’t help but just stand there.

It felt like he was glued. 

Even when footsteps(?) approached his solid body, he didn’t want to move.

It was hard to. It was safer, too. No movement, no damage. 

“——to?” 

Discombobulated voice bounced through the echoes of a wall that was built up, none the wiser to who he knew he should probably know. 

The sounds made no sense nor understanding of what tone it was being used in. 

There was a visual of a deep color that felt familiar and was learned to be safe. 

That deep color seemed to move slowly, even a blackened long line seemed to wave slowly in front of him. 

Like a wave.

Cold and dark.

That was… 

“—-‘s br—g y— som——re e—e.” 

The supposed movements of his legs and the strange uncomfortableness of his stitched up jacket being grabbed and rubbed against his arm as he was led somewhere was none felt. 

He was swimming against the floor. 

———————————

The glazed look over his eyes began to fade as a voice started coming through. 

“-‘re safe here.” 

And the voice seemed to perk up at Karoto blinking his eyes quite rapidly before noticing the simple colors of his surroundings.

“There you are!” Nabiu announced reassuringly. “Do you know where you are?” 

He blinked a few more times before placing his gaze on the blueberry, a feeling of ease washing over him, but just as quickly confusion.

“Wasn’t I…” He trailed off, the tenseness of his legs catching his attention and went to use that as a distraction to gather himself. 

Nabiu caught onto this, simply sitting back on the comfy side couch that she and Karoto shared in this moment, and waited for him to readjust as he attempted to soothe his tense legs. 

“…What.. happened?” Karoto managed to spit out, his body having to use extra effort to keep up with the fatigued figure. 

The girl seemed to contemplate this for a second before responding as lightly as she could; “You were… having that moment again.” 

Mouth being covered by his hand and almost being able to hear his heartbeat with that panicked look in his eyes, the guard close by with his clanking armor.

It seemed to have taken him about a minute before it clicked, seemingly getting his focus back in order at remembering that. 

It didn’t really help his unease with how his body feels currently, chest still tight, but luckily not with another episode. 

“Ah- whoops.” He seemed to joke, and Nabiu couldn’t help but give him her trademark concerned features. 

Yeah. He’s making sure to not eavesdrop again after this. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“HEY, L-LET GO-”

It was supposed to be a simple shopping trip to get supplies to get to the chair.

These parts were a bit nasty but the market had one of the best shops for potions and any other supplies you might need, so Karoto thought this would be a peace of cake to handle-

….But the faking strong liked to pray on the secretly strong weak.

Nabiu could do more, but she had the reflexes and nervousness of a kid. She was too much of a kind soul to truly harm the one in front of her.

So perhaps, Karoto got a bit….pissed at the Aubergine in front of him.

“Hah, oh please kid…you don't need this crARGH-”

But a clean punch in the stomach fixes most things.

The thief's and folk around them watched in shock as the malnourished yet strong thieving Carrot pushed the Aubergine down, holding a foot to the neck with a harsh glare.

Karoto had a reputation. A reputation pierced in rock as the strongest, most cunning and mysteriously advanced thief in all these kingdom's, having robbed them lime it was his own home.

Not a single kingdom was safe.

And his protective energy of what he hold dear was high.

“....Five seconds to run before I cut that sweet throat of yours.”

It was enough of a warning as the moment the leg was removed, the man ran for the hills, screeching for dear life.

“....W O A H.”

Oh yeah, Nabiu.

The thief kindly grabbed the rod and gave it back, giving the kindest yet snarky smile he could give.

“Don't lose it again, kay?”

…..

She probably won't.

Not after what everyone saw.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto likes to consider himself a pretty damn smart guy.

He’s practically been on the run for about twenty years now and has all the ins and outs of how to set-off traps without getting yourself caught, not getting bloodied or bludgeoned to death with trip-wires or sleeping darts… goodness, the whole range!!

A lot of people can be… quite oblivious too, whether it’s out of ignorance or just because they don’t have enough energy to care.

There are those who are much too smart for their own good, however.

——————————-

A resounding laugh echoed through the night-time plaza, the stars shining their small beacons through the space in many of the trees’ leaves that adorned the area. 

“That was way too easy! These mimics can’t hide from us! Let alone try to steal from the occupied.” He said with an air of haughtiness to it, shaking around a small golden necklace with an embroidered ruby as the charm. “Glad to have been given this, too! Could make for a few bucks…” He added the last part quietly.

Nabiu acted like none the wiser, but her comment made his heart skip a beat. 

“You could always ask, y’know.” 

“Ahah… I did. Technically.” He tried with that all-too familiar smile of his, but with a bit more of a genuine nervous tilt of a smile, to the edges of his lips. 

She took a breath in and stopped in her tracks to address the thieving carrot. 

Oh. She was serious.

“…I…” she began, really trying to figure out her words. “Understand that… well… habits die hard.” She knew from experience. Ooohhh she knew. 

But…

“But, this.” She gestured to the golden necklace in his right hand that had stopped swinging a while ago, just as still as he was. “This isn’t… this can’t be the best way to go, can it?” She questioned, almost pleadingly.

She’s seen his good side before, his genuine smiles, especially since making a new family with her, Wizzro, Brocco, he’ll, even the Interns, she’s seen moments of genuinity in him before. 

This was completely opposite and she could tell. 

A form of guilt built up in his stomach, but so did frustration. 

She’s twelve, she wouldn’t get it. He lied to himself.

They would never get it. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Nabiu. Karoto. Get off the desk.’

Ah. The madness Of two people who don't know how to stop working on completely different wavelengths.

Karoto has never truly learned on how to take a break with all the running and thieving around that he has been doing since a young age. It was the means of survival.

He would have died if he didn't overwork and Find food everyday.

Nabiu…Nabiu was just raised to an extent that she didn't want to stop working so she didn't…Disappoint anyone.

So yeah.

Both of them were working through a very complicated potion That both were too petty to stop at. They were so close! They couldn't sleep now!

“....Brocco. Do it.”

But some people were stronger than them.

Without any hesitation, the two were scooped up likr a loose bag of potatoes, making both flinch and immediately struggle kinds weakly in Brocco's grip.

Though it wasn't long till they silenced down any complaints. Their eyes had closed awhile ago and had gotten the rest they needed, quietly seeing laid on the couch.

The Carrot held the small Blueberry close, making sure she was kept warm as a blanket was wrapped over them.

…They slept rather peacefully that night.

It was okay to take a break.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Recent wounds can hurt just as much as past wounds.

And he had the scars to prove it. 

Unfortunately, some of those… had an attendancy to open accidentally.

Hooray for the physical composition of a carrot… 

It was currently early morning, a little before daybreak, and thus began his morning routine. Minus falling out of bed and face planting onto the floor. 

Standing up, he stretched out, wrists, hands, and feet as long as they could go before straightening out and heading towards the shower.

Following this and fixing up his good looks, he grabbed his good old jacket and precious velvet scarf, lovely guitar, and made his way out his bedroom door. 

It was rather quiet, most of the people in this weird household-mixed-school were usually up by 6 AM. It was currently 5:30 AM. 

Taking a few steps into the kitchen to begin making some breakfast (whatever the hell the dude liked), he was surprised by another occupant. 

Brocco. The guard in all his sleepy glory. 

He already suspected why he was up. 

“…Nightmare again?” Karoto asked with a slight smidge of sympathy, but more so out of cordialness despite their odd relationship. 

Brocco simply nodded his head with a saddened “Yes..” 

The conversation ended awkwardly at that.

Well, that was until when Brocco decided to look up at Karoto, seeing his head in the fridge, and his hand outside of it on the handle to the left. 

If it weren’t for his jacket sleeve going up, he wouldn’t have noticed it.

And the screeching of the kitchen table chair sliding across the floor didn’t catch his attention, it was the shadowing of Brocco’s rather large frame, although a few paces away for Karoto’s sake, that did.

“Uh… you good?” Karoto asked rather uncomfortably, but not with malice. 

“Are you-“ Brocco pointed at his own wrist for emphasis with a slight slicing motion. 

Karoto’s face paled.

He looked over at his resting wrist on the fridge handle and turned it over after letting go, seeing what he meant.

An old dried up wound with fresh blood underneath.

It has to be now?! He berated himself silently. Then he remembered his short little stretches. 

Ooooffff course. 

Brocco looked like he wanted to cry at the sight with such a tight concern Karoto thought it’d stay that way with the frown lines on his forehead. 

Karoto immediately held his hands up and shook his head vehemently. 

“I can promise you right now, it’s not like that-“ 

“Then why-“ 

“God! Just- give me a second.” He responded almost frustratedly, mostly from the whole situation.

GOOD MORNING RUINNEEDD. He sang bitterly to himself. 

With closing the fridge, luckily nothing had been made yet, he made his way over to Brocco and had him follow him to his room. 

Right as the door closed, and before any more questioning could commence, the carrot Bard went straight to the point.

“Listen… this,” He pointed to his partially butchered left wrist, other cuts clear as he lifted up his sleeve up some. “Is from… back then.”

He put his arm down and rubbed it with a newfound self-consciousness, that previous frustration gone away with… something less obvious, but definitely pondering. 

O h. And Brocco felt ten times worse than he already did this morning. 

“W- Karoto…” He looked at the too young adult holding such… pain and horrors with a familiar sympathy. 

“Before you say it, don’t…” He kept his voice flat, but seeing his side eye gave away tears beading in the corner of his eye. 

…

“Let’s get it bandaged up.” 

Karoto blinked a few times before coming into focus, “What?”

“We should get that cleaned up, it’d be bad to get it infected.”

He scoffed some. Stop being fucking nice, don’t act like you care. “Tch, it’s gotten like this before, it’s not gonna get infected now.” Barely. 

“At least let me help you bandage it properly. It… wouldn’t be good to see you get sick again.” 

Those bitter tears began to almost fill his eyes before fwipping his head to the side to mask wiping them as he walked over to his bathroom for the first aid kit. 

“Fine.” He slumped on his bed, but carefully put down the kit, letting Brocco take stock of the open wound. 

This was going to be a long conversation. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto sat here with Lemlo for a few minutes in silence now.

She had asked him to sit with her in the quietest flower field she knows, wanting to say something and perhaps get his opinion on a question she can't answer.

….No words had been shared until now.

Lemlo started first.

“...I…sometimes. I sometimes question why I am here.’

Understandable start. He got that this will be heavy.

“...I feel like this Life isn't worth it. Karoto. I saw how everyone constantly is. Cruel. Unjust. Mindlessly corrupt to every bit of their core.’

Wonder If this also connects to her species being rather looked down upon.

Heard they were often seen not as people, but as….waste of space.

Couldn't be more wrong.

“I don't want to end up like that. I don't want to live a life where I become evil just because no one appreciates that my heart keeps beating.”

He was In that situation once.

Nothing changed because he was also being corrupted to be cruel and manipulative.

“Perhaps I'll just die. Die and wither away like any other rotten creature. Perhaps i can….”

….What?

“....Speed it up. Make sure I stay…..I…’

…Ah.

Karoto registered a soft whimper in response as the bat silently wipped her face, not being unable to finish whatever sentence could have left her throat.

He didn't know if he should say anything comforting, but he slowly wrapped his arm around her shoulder and brought her close.

She unintentionally nuzzled into his shoulder.

“....Perhaps you should stay. Who else makes such beautiful fruits as you?”

…..

Lemlo Silently brought her teary gaze up.

She met with two reassuring eyes slowly hugging her.

“Stay a Bit more. Even if your body and mind hate you. Perhaps you don't need them currently to find someone to appreciate you.”

Nabiu looks up to her.

Karoto likes her as she is.

So many companions couldn't love her more.

“You'll be okay. And it's alright if it's not gonna be today. Or next week. Or next month. One day, it can be that one day.’

…..

The soft sobs wrecked through the field and the flowers bloomed like never before.

The tears let everything grow and hug their sides.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The sound of popcorn popping, excited giggles, and happy banter made the night better than it already was! 

Nabiu, being the ever sweet kid she was, brought up the idea for a classic.

MOVIE NIGHT!! 

Karoto, the ever new adult he was to having nothing close to a childhood minus the trauma checklist, was going to have this be his first ever, technically, sleepover!! 

Nabiu couldn’t help the excited squeal she made as she hopped up on the couch, the magic-made Wizzro microwave beeping and calling for one of the four to collect their buttery treat. 

Wizzro, having not sat down yet, grabbed a large bowl and collected their movie snack, Brocco having appeared from his room and joined the already sitting Karoto and Nabiu, taking the left-hand side of the couch with space for Wizzro to sit next to him (gay ass). 

“Wizzro hurry upppppp!” Nabiu exclaimed but without much actual irritation to her voice.

“I’m coming my girl, hold on!” Wizzro called back, and within a few moments the old M.A.G.E. himself appeared and sat a bit too close to Brocco, putting the bowl between him and Nabiu so everyone could get a share. 

“Heh, so- what movie are we going to be watching?” Karoto inquired.

And without a column check Nabiu shouted “THE LEGO MOVIE!!” And began to stim a bit with her arms as she settled back down. 

Man. This was gonna be one hell of a good night. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“WOOOOOOO-”

Karoto was having the time of his life on Lemlo's back while she flew around.

Nabiu had the brilliant idea of doing some practice with not only objecting throwing, but also attempting to move Karoto around while in the air….it was quite interesting!

AND they could learn dodging these things with Lemlo!

Karoto did not get the first half but mostly cheered when he could ride Lemlo.

“Don't move so much-” The Bat huffed silently but else didn't mind being used as a small hovercraft for the time being, being careful to not let the carrot fall from her back.

“ALRIGHT, IM GONNA THROW IN 3-2 ANNNDDD-”

And that's when the chaos began.

Nabiu started to repeatedly throw objects at Lemlo and Karoto, forcing the little fruit bat to dodge everything that was needed in her very direction.

At one point Nabiu stopped and instead grabbed onto Karoto, who flinched slightly….

And then got THROWN IN THE AIR AT FIFTY MILES PER HOUR.

“OH MYGODAAAAAAAAAAA-”

It was weirdly funny to watch.

“KAROTO-” Lemlo snapped her eyes open as she flew up, immediately grabbing onto the screaming Carrot and smiling as she held onto him with her two wings.

Ah.

….

Wait.

She wasn't flying.

They both started To scream a but as they fell down, Nabiu pretty much panicking as they were not in the radius too be catched and they could DIE AND-

Lemlo breathed in silently.

She let go, did a spin, got under Karoto and-

….Catched him successfully.

The Carrot wheezed under his breath for aid and grabbed onto the poor lemon who just had to catch this man mid fight.

Next time be careful with your training, kids.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Wha- Of course it’s allowed why wouldn’t they allow it, hah!-“ His attempt at playing it cool was just as tight as the walls were feeling.

Hold on-

Why- why were they getting closer??

“But we aren’t giving the mind any kind of warning! They might think we’re trying something!” 

Karoto’s panic began to increase by the minute, his heart quickening as the walls began to cave in like his ribs. 

You can just ditch her here! They wouldn’t know it was you! But she doesn’t have a record and she’s actually useful compared to you, she can fight off half of the creatures you can’t like the Leylines what are YOU EVEN DOING-

Jumbled thoughts began to compress on his brain, confusion settling in on why this was happening AGAIN!

“It’ll be fine. They haven’t-“ Sharp breath “They haven’t seen me in a while!” 

“But it’s not fine! This is illegal!” Nabiu countered, a small bit of irritation and concern lacing her voice. 

Very much so, yes. 

“No it isn’t! I-I’ve done this before!” His facade was cracking.

“Before??” She was about to question that sentence until the clanking of armor caught both off guard.

That mask broke as the sounds of clanking armor and closing, screeching metal bars compressing against his body and legs and arms aND MIND LEAVE ME ALONE!!

“KaroooOAAAA-“ An accidental hard push of his hand against her mouth cut off any sound that could have pushed through his hearing as his heart began to ba-bump quicker and QUICKER EVERY MINUTE- 

“Kromto???” A confused Nabiu attempted to squeak out, her face contorting into one of an unseen concern as Karoto practically pushed himself against the wall as he attempted to silence his breathing and his thoughts. 

Unfelt pats against his arms went unnoticed as his numbed out body began to almost black out on itself, almost as if there was nothing there and he was floating.

Distant sounds of metal against metal that would have screeched turned into an uncomfortable ringing as Karoto’s barely felt breathing seemed to pitch in velocity as he practically turned stock-still, his body refusing to do anything more. 

Metal upon metal against his wrists as tightened grasps against his arms and being pushed into an unbreathing room.

Desperate pleas and cries echoing against the cell walls and reverberating back to him, ever so closer and closer with each wail and beg, the guards and colors of the walls of a depressing blue mocking him. 

Things turning more and more black the further into the cell he went, curling against the corner and metal against metal of their mocking armor began to dissipate into the blackness. 

Echoes.

Echoes.

E c h o e s.

E c

H o

Es

.

——————

The soft cracking of fire echoing against the damp walls coming up from the wooden sticks known as torches was the first thing he noticed as the colors began to brighten again.

It took several blinks for both the cold brown of the floor and the bright yellow of Nabiu’s hat to come into view.

Noticing Nabiu practically right against him, he didn’t really know what to do.

What was she doing? 

Gently but stiffly he released his unknowingly gripped grasp against her mouth and rubbed his eyes as things began to become a bit more clear. 

Looking at Nabiu again, her eyes asked a question he hasn’t been asked a lot in his life.

‘Are you alright?’ 

Simply being asked that made his heart swell a tad at an affection he didn’t even know could exist in his life. 

It… it felt nice. Warm.

His head too. Was that normal? 

Karoto notice the blueberry’s face contort into one of beginning panic and he couldn’t help but worry at the sight.

“Nabiu?” And she immediately pointed to his hair.

He looked up and it was aflame, his gorgeous flocks of green roots was oN FIRE IT WAS ONE FIRE AAAAAAAAA- 

He frantically looked around and saw an open window from one of the castle’s many hallways and without a second thought he BOLTED, the singeing of his head (and his crisped locks) burning away (along with the tiredness of that feeling of panic and entrapment) as he took a leap out the window.

(He knew this castle like the back of his hand, unfortunately. He knew he wasn’t gonna die from this.) 

Nabiu was very quick to follow suit with a perplexed look on his face, her Echo Rod saving her from the water below as she saw him plunge feet first into the lake. 

Whatever denizens where nearby that were chilling by the lake near its castle bridge copied Nabiu’s face at a carrot JUMPING FROM A LITERAL WINDOW. 

It took a few seconds before Karoto emerged from the water, a perplexed look on his face that showed more emotions than was probably possible. 

Nabiu floated down by Karoto, a sympathetic expression plastered on her face as the carrot shivered a bit, his eyes partially glazed over for a few seconds before blinking once more, a tired sigh escaping him as he practically begged Nabiu.

“…a t-tavern sounds really nice right now.”

Both the carrot and blueberry trudged over to the side of the lake, ignoring the weirder-out stares of those nearby, Karoto’s shivers ever-present from the chilling waters and practically almost stumbled about once or twice before Nabiu allowed her to be lean on. 

“…Yeah, probably.” 

Seeing what had happened, and something gnawing at her stomach that there was definitely more that meets the eye to this hero, she decided that a break definitely would be nice for him. 

And the fact that next time they have plans related to spelunking in a castle, they’d go with her idea next time. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Okay, just a few lost mushrooms- THAT'S ALL!”

Mono was already panicking the moment they got into the hourclock forest.

Wizzro decided that it was training time and by pure coincidence - Which included Karoto accidently throwing an flashing potion out of the window - a bunch of Mushrooms ran away all scared.

Nabiu liked to call them Mushy's.

“It'll be fineeee…..they can't be that far away!” Cyle, The small fox kid was not worried at all that they could have gotten lost with their sleepy state. It's just gonna be a bit difficult to differentiate them from others.

But they could do it!

Twenty minutes in, they had already found 3 of the 4 That had scattered around!

One had somehow reached a tree, but it wasn't that special. Countless of these had in trees before.

The second had hidden among Smaller babies, but we're different due to the points and size. It was pretty adorable to watch them protect the small sleeping ones with their warmth.

And the third was weirdly active, screeching at everything that moved or tried To push it, making it only consonance by putting it in a small backpack where it soothed itself.

But…the fourth one wasn't found for almost an hour.

And Mono was close to tears due to the panic in his brain.

“Oh, Uncle is gonna be so mad…Everyone is gonna laugh….oh god….”

Mono never had much self-esteem, especially not after the whole chair accident where he almost lead them to certain death with the huge castle.

Even if it wasn't his fault that it was literally in a horrid Place.

One couldn't speak of the things that happened there.

“Hey, Hey…it's alright. We'll find it.” Nabiu softly patted the head, taking the smallest off too ruffle the hair just a bit since it was rather fluffy.

“Perhaps-”

“I FOUNDDDD IT-”

A h.

The last Mushroom looked just a tad sick and puffy, seeming too have cried. It was a rather small baby one, so it must have lost its mother…which was luckily in the backpack.

It all makes sense now.

They softly put it in the back, purrs emitting form it as both family members were together.

Mono breathed in silently…and smiled.

Wizzro wouldn't be mad.

He's a good uncle.

The best.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

He was absolutely hating himself right now.

The basement was so unbelievably cold, like a freaking ice box but a storage unit. It was filled to the brim with magic-based items and crafting materials for those little potions and trinkets that Wizzro liked to make and teach. There were some interesting ones that his clogged mind managed to notice, namely: old dusty brooms with motors. You’d have to get someone super specific to clean up the place and the weird little trinkets and materials. 

Huh. How specific. 

The cold stone floors practically felt like ice frozen over an already chilled lake (just like the castle’s..), his body producing much more sweat than he REALLY NEEDED RIGHT NOW-

It shivered in protest.

Cold drops of water poured down his already soaked face, the sticky feeling of sweat only adding to his already uncomfortable state. 

It was like torture at this point. 

But it didn’t matter how he felt (the people didn’t think so), he has a job to do.

His bingo card was filling up with another cross off the list of the absolute shit hand he was given for today. 

“YOU NEED ANY HELP?!” Nabiu’s voice echoed through both the basement and his already ringing ears and skull, head pounding like a bass drum as he wanted to drop to the floor and block out the sound. 

White noise. 

The universe seemed to hear him some as the sounds of… everything seem to become blocked out with the ever persistent ringing coming through.

“I’M- …I’m fine-“ He struggled to call back, nothing but the build-up of coughs wanting to wrack his throat and the stinging uncomfortable feeling of sneezing wanting to come through blocking that attempt for a minimum of five minutes at least.

God, gross absolutely GROSS. Disgusting (imdisgusting). Sticky. HEAVY.

Heavy… just like the box that he attempted to pick up and move felt, filled with bricks and fragile glass bottles that seem to mock his not-too-strong body and use much more than what he could really do. 

It didn’t help that with every step it felt like the world was weighing on him, it's cold unforgiving land of stones splitting and spreading into his veins and bloodstream, practically feeling his blood pressure drop.

He swore he thought he heard Nabiu comment on his strength with such a heavy box, but the ringing in his ears contested to that, blocking out anything external and created a torture of only hearing his own heartbeat and breathing. 

Barely managing to set the box with stumbling over, his body… felt very off. It… it didn’t feel like it should have. Not compared to this morning. 

The warmth of his body (and feeling like his mind was melting too) practically caused his whole body to gleam in sweat, having that be the only feeling of straight warmth.

How mocking.

The box’s square shape proceeded to turn into a brown blur, the sharp edges going just as slack as his limbs, his stomach practically doing flips like he was going down from a high jump. 

His legs swayed and so too did the ground, colors becoming muddled together as the world sped past him.

Some sort of loud noise from nearby seemed to call for him, before the unregistered freeze of the ground greeted his body. 

THUMP!

……………..

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto felt like death.

Perhaps it's an overreaction. Perhaps not. Perhaps a broken Leg wasn't planned in his thievery.

He very quietly crawled towards an alleyway, one that was neaby the building he jumped off from, quietly begging whatever person in the sky that no guards were appear nearby.

….It’s okay.. it's just a leg. He has another.

Quiet breath. One in. One out.

The thief was just in a nearby castle looking for better food. Warmer ones, even ones that were leftover in the fridge would have been completely alright with the small carrot.

Damm those cooks. Fuck any kind of adult there was. Screw those snotty children with their big Guardians.

Why would one adopt such a stupid child like theirs?

Shakily, the small Bardsat up and grabbed a nearby cloth that he pretty much kept everywhere. One could ask anyone where all the cloth came from that laid in about every alleyway.

No one could answer it.

The cloth was carefully wrapped around the leg, a flinch passing in every two seconds from the nasty crack that had passed in there.

Probably under the knee. It would heal eventually.

He wrapped some tight sticks around it so it wouldn't dare move in any way that it could fracture more.

God. Finding food would be so much harder now.

He was a broken carrot.

…..

Why must a 14 year old suffer like this?

No one knows.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Wizzro couldn’t help but notice the sour look on the Bard’s face, his arms crossed whilst hanging back near the wall in the furthest corner of their lounge area.

Nabiu was outside doing further studies on the little mushrooms in their eating habits, Brocco was out on his shift, and most of the Interns were down in the Kingdom’s plaza fetching some requested items to get for a future potion, one of them staying behind due to not feeling well. 

It wasn’t like Karoto was fully comfortable here yet, but being alone with someone that had the full power to turn him in to the guards and without a way to protect himself or have anyone to defend him… it made him both bitter, more tired than he was, and… realized he felt pretty fucking lonely. 

It was Wizzro’s question that brought him out of his stupor for just a moment.

“Is there something I can help with, Karoto?”

Simple.

To the point.

He couldn’t help some of the frustration that laced his voice when he spoke his mind. 

“Of course not. Nothing to help with here.” He shrunk into his shoulders more, slumping down some. 

Wizzro looked thoughtful for a moment before grabbing an already brewed and ready to go teapot, two cups, and sat down nearby where Karoto was standing. 

It was like his mere presence was inviting him to speak, as his tongue seemed to move without his authority.

Desperate. 

“Why the hell do kids get so fucking lucky with who they’re with?!” He spat out, venom lacing his voice as he huffed. 

Wizzro was… not surprised with his question. 

There was nothing explicitly that mentioned any form of companionship or family, but the tone, how he talked, the way he folded his arms that looked more like a self-given hug than a laid-back or angry position… 

It spoke for itself.

“Their stupid Guardians and being able to eat whatever they wanted, almost didn’t get reprimanded when they dropped or took something that clearly didn’t belong to them!” 

Karoto took a heaved breath before continuing, Wizzro letting him take the time he needed whilst drinking his Green Tea.

Green-looking as some of the expressions Karoto made when retelling some of his past from before.

It was something of a broken, tired, hell-bent adult that didn’t know there could be happiness in a home. 

“How do they get adopted so easily when they struggled to find someone, too! WHAT MADE ME DIFFERENT?! WHY COULDN’T I HAVE A FRIEND TOO?!”

The way that was worded made Wizzro’s heart broke. 

He doesn’t know what a parent is.

“My boy…” Karoto almost ceased at the word, looking close to crying if he wasn’t already. 

“Do you know the term ‘parent’ by chance?” 

“Huh?”

Oh goodness- THAT EXPLAINED SOME OF IT. 

Something in the carrot’s brain told him he probably should, but any sort of wracking for the word came up with nothing. 

“Ppppaareeeennttt…” He tested the word, but he already felt extra bitter thinking about it. 

“Yes… Well… it’s like you said, a guardian, but not just a protector. A supporter, someone who nurtures and cares for those that are younger than them like their child.” 

“Parent… Tch.”

Wizzro perked up at the noise for a second, watching him carefully. 

“…I know this isn’t the greatest topic for you to speak on.” He took a moment before continuing, making sure the carrot was paying attention. “But that doesn’t mean that you never had any. And it doesn’t have to be right from birth, either.” He commented wisely. 

Karoto scratched the back of his head, eyes closed as he pondered the idea. 

“…What makes you think I deserve one, anyways? Hell, did mine even exist then?!” 

“Every child deserves a parent, Karoto. Not every parent deserves a child.” 

The carrot couldn’t help some of the tears that began to run down. 

“It doesn’t mean that you can’t start to recreate that.” 

The ole M.A.G.E. got up from his seat and went to approach the carrot.

And hugged him.

“Just because the world doesn’t care doesn’t mean there aren’t people who don’t.”

He felt the carrot start to shake as he said that, and held him a tiny bit tighter. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Karoto may have not been in the best mental state that day.

It was just a bit more stressing and emotionally exhausting that day. Maybe he hadn't slept that well too the point his body lost its warmth.

It actually felt quite cold and dead actually.

Serves you right. You haven't been a good person.

Sometimes he wondered if he deserved this.

Probably not. He only hurt most if not everyone he met out of this house so he didn't understand all the trouble they went trough.

…..you know, he felt sweaty again.

Heck, his vision was getting rather blurry and unfocused as he walked into a room with about three voices. They all seemed cheery.

Karoto didn't want to ruin it again due to everything.

A swift turn around and-

…a….and…..

(Maybe his body wasn't made for the warmth of a home.)

THUMP.

…………………

…..

…

.

….ow.

His head hurt.

Felt like those bed in that old, rusty orphanage at first.

(Are there any for adults. He remembered old threats of guards to send him to one of those behave camps.)

(Mostly the reason he kept switching kingdom's at some point. But also for safety and new people.)

“Karoto?”

The voice was from Wizzro. He was getting better at registering these voices and regonizing each of their small details.

Wizzro was sweet and warm. It was always filled with concern.

….He only responded with a silent nod.

He registered laying on a couch with a blanket on his body.

“....Sorry.”

“Your Alright. The others were worried.”

….Wizzro didnt sound as tired as he wanted it to be. He almost sounded reassuringly alright.

Not sick of him.

He weirdly lifted his hands with a tired glance.

Wizzro knew enough of other interns to know what Karoto wanted.

He stood up, walked forward and carefully kneeled down to hug Karoto While he was seated.

…..It was alright.

They cared.

Even if Karoto sometimes struggled to believe it.

Perhaps he even smiled softly at the warmth.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

It was just an average conversation.

“Those castle’s seriously need to lighten up, just like this place!” Nabiu spun in a circle, almost as if showing off Wizzro’s old space. 

Karoto’s smile couldn’t help but have his smile twitch downwards slightly, hearing the mention of those castles.

How’d they get here again?

“Maybe a bit more gold or something, I don’t know how they patrol there!” She giggled some, not catching the drifting frown forming on his face. 

That patrol.

“Say, you’ve been in those rooms, right?” 

Don’t think about it. BURY IT. 

“Uh- y-yeah.” Stuttering SHIT YOU’RE STUTTERING! 

“…You okay?” Noticing his stuttering.

It’s like she could read his mind at his embarrassed thoughts of simply letting a stutter SLIP!

“Karoto?…” She said slowly, as if she was about to break an already fragile glass. 

“Heh.. this-“ He brushed his hand through his hair, slightly tangling his precious roots. 

“Man, this is silly. I was in that room. Several times!”

“Like, the King’s room??” 

He couldn’t help but laugh a bit in hysterics. 

“Oh not just that!” He almost went up to pull at his tangled hair. 

“…?” 

“I probably should have died in that room!” He spat, not even noticing the tears forming in his eyes as he laughed again. 

“W-what?!” Her jaw practically hung open. “What do you mean??”  

“I’ve been cornered so many times I couldn’t HELP IT!!” He felt like he was going in s a n e. 

“I JUST WANTED FUCKING OUT!” 

He sat down as he began to heave. 

“I-I-I wanted an escape. ANYTHING.” He grabbed at his scarf.

“Th-there was this rope somewhere in the room I didn’t fucking care I just wanted…” He practically tried to gulp the whole of the planet’s O2 as he continued his ravished sentence. 

“I tried to fucking tie it. Tie it so fucking tight. But no the UNIVERSE WANTS ME TO FUCKING SUFFER!!” He screamed out, grabbing at his neck as his breathing splintered.

Before going further, two hands grabbed his in a pleading manner to stop for a second.

“Heyheyhey, Karoto..” She said, cutting off his rambling speech. She almost began crying like he was if it weren’t for her taking a breath herself and addressing him. “Breathe for a moment, you’re hyperventilating…” 

Shit- 

“Breathe… in four.” 

Breathing in. Attempting to. 

“Out four…” His chest shook.

“In…” She repeated.

“Out…” 

And he parroted the process about three times, each time getting better until he was mostly back to normal. 

He slumped his head back, hands still in hers. 

He still couldn’t help the tears that continued to flow down.

“You…”

With eyes closed he nodded his head.

“Oh, Karo…” 

“I just wanted it to go away.” 

She hugged him, and he practically crushed her with his hug. 

She hugged back as tight as she could whilst attempting to give reassuring words as he bawled.

That pain is something that’ll never go away, whether with memory or a simple touch against the skin with which happened.

But that doesn’t mean it will last forever.

Things can heal. 

And they will. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Arti hummed to themselves as they went to shop for some things alone with Karoto.

They had Been reconciling together after everything that happened, clearly still in shock from even meeting each other again in this giant world full of love…yet also death.

The death of a bond happened in the past.

Now to reform it.

They signed silently, making sure that everything was easily readable for the Bard.

‘Do you need anything?’ They asked simply as they crossed their arms, having too any child that sparkled up at the big Hero’s stature….very easily recognizable.

But so was the thief.

It was rather surprising for anyone who knew both of their reputations...that they'll be together.

“....Arti.” 

The tone sounded weirdly silent as he looked down at the ground, thinking it was rather pleasant to avoid Arti’s gaze for something else.

But they signed back.

‘Yes?’

“...You don't hate me. Right?”

….

What.

Arti spun around indirectly, stopping right in the path and grabbing Karoto’s shoulder.

‘...Do you think that.’

Simple. Indirect.

Just like always.

The Carrot almost flinched but didn't make eye contact.

….a faint nod.

Needed confirmation that they didn't after everything, probably.

….fair.

‘I do not.’

The store they got in returned looked in disbelief.

“...Promise.”

Ah.

Like always.

But it was alright to not lie about this.

‘Promise.’

The easiest yet hardest sign to make for such a confirmation.

….Karoto relaxed.

‘...Alright. Thank you.’

He had signed back silently.

….Arti smiled without anyone knowing.

They didn't need to know.

Karoto could read them.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The lonely emptiness of his room didn’t typically bother him as much as he believed (although a deeper part of him knew that was a lie).

He hated it.

The darkness didn’t help either. 

He… he hated how much it reminded him of the cells. The cold ground and walls provided no comfort no matter how much he pleaded. 

He shivered some as if he was there. 

Gods… he didn’t want to be alone. 

He couldn’t be alone.

With his heart thumping some, he got out of his bed, the comfort of the sheets now feeling like brambled weeds that scratched at his skin and trying to stick into him.

To keep him trapped.

He breathed in, somehow, and trudged to his door before stopping for a second.

He side-stepped back in, going to his closet dresser, opening the drawer on the right, took out his beloved Fatigued Fungi plush, looking just as sleepy as he felt.

Okay, NOW he went to his bedroom door, and not a second later was gone.

—————————-

Standing in front of Nabiu’s door, it was ajar.

She was such a sweet kid.

He pushed it open with a finger, the door creaking open as if cringing at his want for comfort. (Fuck off door). 

He looked inside and saw her on her comfy bed, filled with plush blankets and fluffy pillows. 

He quietly called out.

“…Nabiu?…”

No stirring. Yet.

He pushed the door open a little more, just enough to where he could slide through, and pushed it back to where it originally was positioned.

He then made his way over the the end of her bed, feeling just a tiny bit awkward at doing this.

AGAIN.

He tried a second time.

“Nabiu?” 

A shift of her eyebrows and an eye cracked open, processing the sound she heard.

Sitting up, she rubbed her eyes and addressed the carrot in the room.

“Kroto? Mm.. wht’s wrng?” She mumbled, now giving him her full attention.

“I…” he started, but an embarrassed flushing of his face started to spread. “Uh…” 

Well, he wasn’t in here for no reason, and it’s happened before too when he got sick.

Without another word she scooted over, patting the empty space next to her. 

He awkwardly walked to her side of the bed and climbed in, immediately wrapping a majority of the blanket she was using.

She laughed some, taking another one that was folded up and sidled next to one of the many pillows that adorned the walled side of the bed. 

She, too, wrapped herself in her new founded blanket, and cuddled up next to the carrot.

Comfy and safe.

As it should be. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

"It should be somewhere here…”

Karoto was quietly humming to himself.

He was halfway through most of the Interns and in a whole ‘nother Kingdom as he realizes that they were nearby one for the bigger lots he had caught!

And…buried. Very deep in the sand.

Look, HE WAS IN A HURRY-

But that wasn't important, since he had just freshly told Nabiu that a treasure was hidden Underneath the sand, told by many people to be abandoned goods by some old person.

Which was incorrect, BUT WHO CARES, he was actually having fun with Nabiu!

They had Been digging around for quite a while, actually chatting and making jokes along the way while also finding some rather pretty seashells.

The ocean was hearable in them…and sometimes a crab.

[His head still hurts from the hair pulling.]

But, they were getting closer and closer as they dug more holes and Karoto remembered bits and pieces of where he had dug and-

“I FOUND SOMETHING!!!”

Nabiu was great at searching.

“Oh, let me see!”

With some effort, both of them pulled a rather large, sandy bag out of the sand out of one of the many holes they had dug, looking old and just a tad moldy.

Ew.

Nabiu slowly opened it, cutting the rope off with some strength and-

Perhaps Karoto's eyes got golden again.

It was full of the old treasure of the king he stole from, all glistering the same as they did all those years before…even if some were matt now.

“WE DUG AN OLD TREASSUREEEE!”

But perhaps Karoto only jalfly cared for the gold in there as he watched Nabiu laugh and celebrate.

Perhaps that gave him an even bigger smile than whatever riches he could have.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Wizzro was typically pretty good at his job! 

The Interns absolutely loved him, Nabiu was his pride and joy (for being a M.A.G.E.), Karoto was coming around, and Brocco was a fantastic roomie. 

However… sometimes it got to him. It’s just… it can get to be a lot, practically juggling a whole family that’s more than a school-based system as a job. 

It seemed like some of those stressors were noticed too, as about everyone stood clear of the experienced wizard that was currently reworking a rather complicated potion. 

He was mumbling a lot, sometimes scratching at the paper a little bit too hard to get it to crumple some under the fast writing. 

He was all too aware of the knight standing by his work desk, attempting to try to ignore him and his rising irritation.

“Wizzro…” Brocco tried at first, putting on a soft tone, but not one to argue with. (He knows how to get others’ attention with his voice, that’s for sure). 

“Not. Now.” The old wizard stated, trying to keep his tone even but it was obvious he wasn’t doing okay. 

Hell even his pencil grip was turning his already pale hand white. 

The broccoli knight sighed and practically leaned over him, hand on his shoulder and he knew it was working as Wizzro’s shoulders slumped.

“Lemon…” He practically almost cooed. 

“…” A sigh followed from the old M.A.G.E., his grip on his pen and subsequent desk loosened as he grabbed Brocco’s hand. 

“Let yourself relax, you’ve already been working hard enough.” Brocco convinced 

Wizzro audibly grumbled, but ended up getting up either way, Brocco following close behind to make sure the old bastard didn’t decide to pull a quick one and go back to his desk.

L i k e l a s t t i m e. 

Brocco went from behind to holding his hand, leading him to their basically established break room that used to be a classroom.

It adorned some comfy seating, a soft couch to the left, a few chairs and tables to the left with a warm yellow glow from the window right in the center of the back wall.

The green knight gently led the tired, overworked wizard to the couch, having him sit down first, and he joined soon after. 

“You’re allowed to take breaks, Wiz. Your projects can wait, your health cannot.” He said wisely, almost parroting Wizzro’s old sayings to his Interns he’s heard many times before. 

Feeling Wizzro lean against him, Brocco wrapped his arm around his shoulder, pulling him into the knight’s side and later further onto the couch.

“…I love you.” Wizzro commented tiredly, but with an undeniable affection to his tone.

“I love you, too, Lemon.”

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Lemlo was dying.

She felt like it.

Every fiber of her body was in heavy pain as she sobbed to no one in particular. Or perhaps she didn't sob, simply staying silent on the ground as everything went down.

There was a faint memory of what happened just a minute before.

- - - - - - —----------

“OUT OF THE WAY-”

There had been a heavy amount of Lycan interference in a nearby town…which had concluded into a panic with THREE LYCANS RUNNING AROUND.

‘Lemlo, make sure to tell us where they are and too help us dodge.’ 

Arti had been so careful by making sure Lemlo was out of harm's way while everyone was fighting on the grass, trying to desperately fix all these leylines that had opened.

It was one massive multiple cracked line, almost looking like shattered glass in the ground.

….it should have been alright.

“HOLY SHIT-”

“Karoto, stop Trying to rush this-”

“My Girl, please keep your head down!”

“I WILLL-”

So many voices had blurred together while the leylines were closed, two lycans already down as the last one was starting to lode power as well.

They almost celebrated.

….But the last one shot up.

Lemlo couldn't dodge, the claw coming closer and-

C R A C K.

- - - - - - —---------- - - - - -

Her head hurt.

She saw some faint signs that were only half made out by Arti.

‘Im sorry. I'm so sorry.’

Frantic apologies as they kept a hand to the right wing.

It was ripped open. Perhaps one could see the cracked bone. Wings were so fragile and the coat almost didn't seem like silk anymore.

It felt like skin.

….More people spoke and helped, the green one lifting Lemlo up while the yellow one got out some white stuff. Bandages? A med kit?

She didn't know.

The blue and orange people were pushing away any other civilian that tried to interrupt.

….Quite the crowd.

They were…worried. She thinks? Maybe. Perhaps.

……Her head hurt less after a bit.

…

She felt the hand that was patting her head slowly.

Lemlo looked up to see Arti without their vines for once.

They stared in surprise.

And…..silently spoke in their broken and gurgled voice.

“....Hello.”

….She was alive.

With a broken wing.

But it would heal.

It would.

Be alright.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Meeting Grabley the first time is something that Nabiu won’t ever forget. Not that she’s forgetting everyone else she’s met too! 

There was just… something different about them. There was a solace here in this patch of a garden that they, as written, grew from themselves and for other fruits and vegetables!

She’s sure Karoto was of a similar stature! At least under the prospect of meeting another fruit (although his expression was obvious). 

Having to come visit them for some questions on their eye that they had given the duo, it wouldn’t hurt to stay around some, too!

“Grableeyyy!” Nabiu called out, the ever present smile on her face as she looked to greet her accomplice, Karoto right behind, looking a little more weary.

The blueberry walked a little further into the patch before stopping before a rather strange root that… seemed to almost have a sort of glow to it, in an odd sense. 

And a few more steps forward against the healthy ground presented what exactly that was.

Who that was.

Grabley. 

Without saying another word, Nabiu brought out her journal, going to the page with the large Grape friend.

She watched as the quiet gardener began…

Repairing one of the trees??

She and the observant carrot watched on in silent awe as the tree was literally becoming whole again, a rotting hole that began to turn that natural brown-gray that practically looked like it glittered in the sun. 

Nabiu excitedly wrote down her observations, quickly doodling them and the tree, noticing that Grabley was actively a part of it.

She’s got to ask how their root system works after this. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Brocco was a very smart man.

He was the leader of a team after all, he had to make sure everyone was alright and not doing anything out of line due to their stupid opinion on what's right.

They didn't deserve an opinion if they hurt little children, so they'll better listen to someone who knew.

…But to some things?

Yeah.

He was just a bit oblivious to everything and everyone, which included a certain outing’s meaning.

“So, Where do you wanna go first, Brocco?”

Wizzro had brought him into the snowy landscape that is the Broccoli Kingdom in winter, glistering with snow and happy children who were excited for the season.

And presents obviously.

“Well…uhm. The bakery sounds nice, I suppose.”

Brocco wanted to cringe at his awkwardness, but the reassuring hand that intertwined with his own was weirdly the one thing that comforted him.

Did he mention that Wizzro told him to wear warmer clothes that weren't his armor? Because he did and the man kept complimenting in a way that made him blush.

Urgh. Tease.

As they went into the bakery, Wizzro held him just a bit closer, ordering something he only halfly listened too as he leaned onto the right…which meant Wizzro's hat.

The man seemed to shiver a bit, but mostly out of embarrassment. There was a soft giggle as he opened one eye up, only being able to snicker back at the Wizards embarrassment.

His stomach felt rather warm, even without the food.

Though Brocco assumed they would make it a takeout, the old Mentor brought him over to a seat where they could both sit together…which meant more holding hands and leaning against eachother.

It felt nice to be soft with his sweetheart. Well….he thought that's what it is. Perhaps he didn't want it- Did they ever say it was anything more than friends or friends with benefits?

Does….Does this mean their together? Oh god, ARE THEY NO-

“This is a great date already, my Dear...”

…..What.

WAIT A SECOND-

“This was a DATE-” Brocco almost lurched out of his seat as he forced Wizzro's face over with one hand on his cheek, looking at his friend’s eyes a bit too embarrassed.

Wizzro blinked back a bit dumbfounded as he rested a hand on Brocco's leg….slowly starting to snicker and blush as his eyes teared up in a happy manner.

“Oh my- My lime, your-” The man started to snicker in such an adorable way. How…how did he ever get the Mentor of such an amazing internship to like him-

Peck.

….Oh god, he was just kissed on the cheek.

OH GOD, THIS ISAAAAAAAA-

The leader of all the guards on the kingdom was blushing like a madlad at this point, shivering silently as he got kissed on the cheek like a lover.

Does that mean he gets to kiss back.

Let's try it, if he dies that's his fault-

He very gently leaned in for a kiss on the nose, giving it a soft peck as he ignored the softness of the beard. Wizzro seemed to keep it rather comfortable and taken care off.

“My sweet, Your so red right now.”

He was, wasn't he? Brocco didn't particularly care right now.

“Well, I could say the same to you then…my love.”

“I- You don't- You don't get that after not noticing this was a date-!”

The way his lover got flustered after his way of words was the one thing that brought a smirk too his face, holding him close to a point it could be seem as cuddling.

Wizzro was a kind person. A warm and welcoming Mentor with the love for everyone who passed his way.

Brocco loved this man.

Period.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The learned quiet footsteps of the gardenesque castle that small Karoto was sneaking around in were none heard as he looked for the treasury room.

“Jeez this place is crawling.” The tiny carrot remarked, using all of his willpower to not trip over any roots that grew outside of its home. 

Wait.

Why were some of them moving?

He took a step back at the small pond of vines, the green being shown in a brilliant emerald and moving across the ground, grazing by his feet like snakes.

Continuing to move backwards away from the weird vines, his heart dropped at a breathing figure standing behind him. 

He froze. 

His heart quickened. The guards THERE’S A GUARD THEY SHOULDN’T BE HERE THERE WAS NO ARMOR SOUNDS-

“…H… Hello?” A timid voice squeaked out behind him, and he swiftly turned around, his scarf swirling around him ever-so majestically. 

“AAaaaa… Huh?” His voice quickly quieted down and his annoyance slightly picked up. 

A kid? Oh, of course. Spoiled brat in ANOTHER CASTLE.

It was hard to see her facial features in the moonlight that lightened up her back, and honestly? It scared him a little. 

She’ll tell, she’s going to tell someone HURRY UP-

“What are you, uhm… doing back here?”

Smart enough to question. Rare. He scoffed sarcastically to himself.

A H. Question, right. 

“IIIIII’mmm exploring!” He swiftly answered, trying to give no room for a lie to slip through. 

“B…back here? They’re just… bedrooms.” She tried back.

Not very great at convincing, are you? He noticed.

“Well, every nook and cranny is bound to have something, right?” He smiled his ever-good smile, always able to knock someone’s guard down a bit. 

She didn’t budge, almost shrinking back on herself.

“…Are you… looking for something specific?” 

DUH. 

“Mmaaayybbee.” God acting like this was going to kill him WHY IS HE TRYING. 

Little footsteps were seldom heard as she walked a bit forward, the ajar roof with a weirdly cut out rectangle following the line of where the edges meet lightened her features. And needless to say he was surprised.

A lemon?? 

They were… kind of rare, he couldn’t help but take in the sight some. 

She shrunk down a little, but continued to speak “I, uhm… can take you, if you want?” 

He blinked.

And took a sharp step back.

“Take me??” He couldn’t help but raise his volume some. “Take me to YOUR PARENTS?? THE GUARDS??” 

Her ears pressed downwards, the sound piercing her skull as she moved her… wings???? Into a placating gesture.

“Nononono!” She quickly said, “T-they don’t… normally pay attention.” 

Now that caught his attention. 

Well… it was rather easy to get in (and probably cause bats were nocturnal, their hours are different). He almost face-palmed at the recognition. 

“Really?” He doubted. Don’t bother tricking me. 

“Really…” Her tone… no, don’t fall for it. 

Before asking another question, his stomach growled. And he’s pretty sure he would have melted right then and there from the embarrassment of it. 

“Ah… hungry?” And a very, very quiet “Me too” added after the initial sentence. 

He stopped for a second.

She… she seems like me. The carrot almost hoped for a small second that maybe…

Hah. What a thought. He shook his head and regarded the tiny back for a moment. 

…

Can’t believe I’m doing this, but I need some too.

“Well, let’s go get some then!” 

“What?!” 

“We’re both hungry, yeah? Why wait?”

“I-I-I- I can’t! I-I have to wait!!” What? That’s… odd. 

“…Then I’ll get some for us.” Karoto crossed his arms. “Where do your guardians keep the kitchen??” That probably sounded desperate. 

“Uh… the, uhm… other side of the castle.” 

Jeez. Starvation a trend? He chuckled bitterly to himself.

“Well, some food is coming up, then! Yoouuuuu gonna come along?” He needed someone as lookout.

Her tiny wings practically shielded herself against the colors of the green hallway, “I-… I can’t.” 

He couldn’t help the frown forming on his face. 

Figures. 

He sighed, going to turn around with a wave and a “Thanks..” before being stopped by the movement of an outstretched wing, immediately recoiling before touching him. 

“I can tell you where to go and where the leftovers are.” 

Really taking a moment to look at her face, he felt like he was dreaming. She was being honest.

“…What’s your name?” He couldn’t help but ask.

“Lemlo.” Kind of pretty. 

He smiled some. “Karoto. Now then, a plan?” 

He was sure going to remember this weird experience. 

But… not like the others. This one felt, for once, nice. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“Ow- i-”

“Shh. Your…stay. Please.”

Arti hated using their voice.

They hated to use it due to the pain it would cause their throat, the fear it brought too so many people and the recognition that their not a person, but a beast.

They despised it.

….But there were….exceptions.

Karoto had gotten in an absolutely nasty fight with a monster that they didn't want to remember, hitting his head hard against a rock-

Karoto was lucky to come out with a light concussion and just the blurry memory of what happened with the enemy, nothing else-

But that didn't make the sight of a bandaged up Carrot at the edge of 18 any better.

“I'm sorry-”

“It’s okay. It’s not your fault.”

They hated their face too.

But the vines, the cloak and anything that covered up their head was gone, simply sitting on the chair beside the bed as they pulled the blanket up to his chin.

The Thief needed all the rest he could get. Everything that he needed was the warmth of someone there for him.

You can't protect him forever.

Arti physically recoiled at that thought.

“...mmm….”

They gently moved the hand on the blankety gently rubbing it to reassure him that they wouldn't leave.

Not in a lifetime.

….The instincts of a parent came all from being an animal.

If this is the one time they let the beast in them slide, then be it to protect their little…

Cub.

Their cub.

Their sweet Cub.

Nothing shall harm him.

The Artichoke promises on their heart.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Not being aware of your emotions can come back to bite you when you least expect it.

Probably doesn’t help when the stressors are years long, untalked about, and BOILING. 

The others, the duo of Cameron and Tomaria, felt it long before the inevitable happened. 

The others definitely felt the energy shift. 

————————

The start of the day was hell.

They didn’t have enough eggs for the cookies Arti wanted to make.

Tomaria was having issues with one of her bombs and practically almost blew herself up, giving Arti an almost heart attack.

Cameron…. Well, he was actually doing okay today.

There were two robberies in their subsequent town that, based on the actual crimes themself, reminded them way too much of Karoto, so their emotions were already high. 

And then they gET CALLED FOR AN INVASION HAPPENING FROM INVADERS. 

Great. FUCKING GREAT.

Okay. Okay! That’s… that’s fine. They’ve dealt with invasive people AND creatures before. 

Nothing new. 

A sigh.

Nothing. New. 

————————-

A DSHH zoomed passed the vined figure and a quick FFFSLSHHHHH painted the ground below with a crimson, the body turned into a fountain as their life quickly drained. 

Arti shivered. 

Karoto, currently having blasted a small Root Eater away (odd to see one out. Tamed?) with his teeming music, and the body shake that the gigantic Artichoke gave out, he swiftly turned their way and placed his back against theirs.

His odd eyes scanning around the surrounding few attackers left, about seven of them, and made a quick question to Arti.

His index finger and thumb made a circle, with his other two bending upwards and pointed at them.

‘You okay?’

They took a sharp breath in, but before getting the chance to respond, something slick and sharp ZZWWOOSH passed their face, barely grazing their spiked hair. 

Something.

Something felt like it snapped. 

A quick few spelling of letters Arti barely noticed.

‘Arti?’ 

And straight red.

A dash of unfelt feet on the too warm ground passed by them in a harsh array of colors that just reminded them of their own feelings. 

Anger, grief, sadness, REGRET. 

Their head hurt just from the mere THOUGHT of the words.

They were tired of the SMELLS.

“—ti!!” GODS SHUT UP!!!

A swing of their actual arms as they spun around caused whoever it was to stumble backwards, clearly aghast at the attempted attack. 

Something grabbed at their outside arms from their cloak.

A resounding GRWLLL resounded through their vines and just-

—————- 

“Arti!!” A stifled sob sounded from the carrot and the Artichoke was at immediate attention, going to get down on both knees and check the small Karoto over.

Both of their palms up and flipped over to use both pointer fingers at him.

‘What happened?’ 

He just shook his head, clearly in no headspace to talk. 

So instead, they wrapped their arms around them and hugged them, letting him bawl his eyes out on them. 

- - - - - - - - - - - - 

The blood dripping down from the wolf’s blood drew out their old, vile instinct and at that moment they felt like a monster again. 

He kept reassuring them, saying it was only a flesh wound, that it would heal, but they couldn’t fucking help it.

They tightened the vines around their face a little more and swallowed the bile down.

- - - - - - - - - - - - 

Tomaria’s ragged breathing echoed through the hollow cave, her practically shaking as Arti’s silent prayers and agitation from one of those d a m n k n i g h t s played through their mind. 

“T-t-thank y-you.” The tomato shook out, beginning to convulse on their back and they shifted to move them to their arms, bridal style. 

As non-gurgled as they could, as they were carrying the injured bomber, they said the best they could.

“Always.”

—————————

A n d s o m a n y m o r e p o p p e d i n t o t h e i r m i n d. 

So many close calls, the amount of BLOODSHED and bloodied bruises and cuts and scrapes and almost lost eyes and limbs and EVERYTHING!!

Hearing their cries so many times and not being able to do a damn thing.

THEY’RE SUPPOSED TO BE A HERO!!

At their internal dialogue, they unknowingly lashed out, nearly hitting Karoto straight in the face as he tried to get through to them.

With this distraction, it only took a few seconds.

SCHHWWIINNGGG!!!

It's like time stopped. His. His cries. 

“KAROTO!!!” 

Hearing him cry in pain just caused the floodgates to open. 

The vines unfurled the farthest they could go, showing their ugliest, most threatening snarl they could to a jagged-lime bat with metal along his black wings. 

They saw the fear in their eyes and it was only a second before they lunged towards them and practically threw them into a fucking tree and cut it in half with the creature’s body. 

They arched their back as they protectively hovered over Karoto, unknowing tears of rage and fear beginning to flow down as their snarl continued to almost berate anyone that came near. 

“A—i I’- ——!” A flash of orange and they nearly took out whatever that was before being stopped by a familiar touch of worn but ever-loved white gloves. 

Arti stopped dead in their tracks, back curled like a feral cat and eyes widened in a craze that only those who really knew them could tell was fear.

“-rti..” It called again. He called again. 

It was a few second realization before focusing in on the color. And the figure associated with it.

Their limbs almost went slack and just… stopped.

They shakily signed. ‘Karo…’ 

The distant shouting of Tomaria and Cameron caught their attention seldomly, their figure sinking in some as they began to shake more, almost akin to a laughter. 

And they laughed. And continued to laugh.

And Karoto’s, Tomaria’s and Cameron’s faces were ones of obvious concern and confusion. This wasn’t… something to really laugh about. 

And the sounds of a hysterical scream echoed the current feelings that Arti couldn’t help but RELEASE.

Their gargly voice matched perfectly with their hysterics. 

“rrRAGGGGHHHHHAHAHAAA” 

All three of their previous broken team jumped a bit, not really having seen Arti like this… ever. 

Well, Karoto anyway. 

An almost breathy, crying inhale was taken as Arti just-

Broke.

“WHY CAN’T ANYTHING BE SAFE?! THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING AFTER O N E OF U S I CAN’ T D O T H I S T H I S W A Y” 

The next sentence broke all of them upon hearing it, almost bringing Tomaria and Karoto to tears, Cameron his ears pinned down and a heart-broken frown.

“WHY CAN’T I BE NORMAL?!” They sank down fully onto the ground on their knees and balled up, practically becoming a spiky ball as their broken sobs echoed through the previously occupied battlegrounds. 

An unusually tender hand placed itself upon their cloaked shoulder, getting Arti to look at them through a bleary eye full of unshed tears from years of anguish and hell.

“Ma.” He said to them, internally hoping that that would calm them down.

They just… stared.

And cried. 

And without another second Karoto hugged them tight, asking a simple question that just cry harder.

“Ma, what’s wrong?” The carrot gently rubbed his hand against their palm. “You can talk to us.” 

“Everything.” 

At that word Tomaria went over to their left side and crashed into them (almost knocking them over some) and held tight.

Cameron came around to the right side of Arti, putting a warm paw on their shoulder. 

“I can’t be enough to protect you three.”

The grip to their left got harder, Tomaria’s head shaking with several “Oh nononono…”, a quickened heartbeat causing them to shift their cloak closer around themself. 

For warmth or keeping their team safe from them is unanswered. 

Two palms against their face caused them to look up, ripped mouth contorted into a heavy frown wracked with sobs. 

With tears beading his own eyes, Karoto practically looked into their soul (what an irony).

“But that’s all you’ve ever done. And you do it good.” Karoto couldn’t help his own tears start falling.

“You actually gave me a home.” He practically whispered, and Arti couldn’t help but to curl around him more. 

“You give all of us a safe place.” Tomaria added, her own tears welling up in her eyes but refusing to let them fall. 

“You’re much braver than most, and you keep your urges at bay. I can say for sure that not many can do that so successfully, even with the few moments you may have.” Cameron added in quietly, but with a tone that said to not be argued with. 

Her outside vibes wrapped around the wolf’s torso, giving him a half hug as his free hand patted the vines, paw occasionally patting their shoulder. 

“You put too much strain on yourself.” He continued, getting them to look up at him. “Let us take the reins for a while. Or speak to us a bit more on plans at least.” He reasoned, but Arti… they couldn’t. 

“I can’t.” They practically pleaded. “There have been so many times where one, if not, multiple of us have almost died!” They shifted heavily at that statement, discomfort clear in their voice at the thought of losing any of them. 

“T-that… that may be true but each and every time you’re there.” Tomaria chided in desperately. “You’re not some sort of… slave! You don’t always have to be working, be saving!” 

She pulled away from their side and sidled up next to Karoto, grabbing her left hand whilst the carrot still kept hold of their right. 

“We’re here too, Arti.” 

Arti couldn’t speak, not much more, simply hugging the two of them so fucking close, grasping Cameron as close as they can as well. 

Things were hell. 

Emotions were hard.

But that doesn’t mean family has to be. 

They’re there for each other.

And that sure as hell goes for Arti, too. 

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Air was a feeble thing you don't appreciate enough.

The ability to smell certain things with your nostrils and letting fish air embed trough them, letting breath and calmness go by without even another thought to anything else.

One would take these for granted due to their normality.

Karoto wished for his air back recently.

There had been seaweed around his leg. So much exotic life that begged him to stay down and finally take up on what he deserved after all these years.

But Karoto didn't like listening.

…There was a blue blob up ahead.

Which should be weird since it's the ocean, but this blob specifically is much more blue and also a bit….urgh….he can't remember…The colour.

….can't remember to do anything.

…..head….hurts….

……

- - - - - - —----------

RACOUGHCOUGHCOCZGH-

The water left his lungs.

….

There was air.

Fesh air around him as he spat out the rest of water onto the sand that softened down below, beckoning him to take a break and let the rest of the liquid leave.

The sand was dry and unforgiving, yet weirdly…one can't help but feel comforted by it. It sticks too the liquid even if it despises it.

Weird. It reminds him of Nabiu.

….Speaking of NabIU-

THUMP.

“DONT EVER DO THAT AAAAGAAAAAAIN-”

….She was crying hysterically.

…..

Yep, not doing that again.

He would make sure of that.